Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken Recipe

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I’m a big fan of simple dinners that don’t compromise on flavor, and this Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken Recipe is a regular on my weekly rotation for good reason. It’s packed with rich tomato flavor, savory herbs, and melty mozzarella that gets beautifully golden in the oven. The best part? Everything cooks together in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.

The first time I made this dish, I was in a rush and looking for something both comforting and quick to serve. I had chicken, a block of mozzarella, and a jar of marinara sauce on hand. It only took one bite to know this would be one of my go-to dinners. It’s hearty, satisfying, and tastes like something you’d get at a cozy Italian bistro.

What makes this recipe so irresistible is how the juicy chicken absorbs the flavors of the sauce while the cheese on top gets that perfectly bubbly, lightly charred finish. I love serving it with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce or over spaghetti when I want something a little more filling. It’s honestly hard not to fall in love with it from the first forkful.

Why You’ll Love This Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken Recipe

This dish checks every box: it’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-worthy result. If you’re a fan of quick weeknight meals, this one will win your heart. With only one pan, you get juicy, flavorful chicken simmered in marinara and topped with melty mozzarella that adds a satisfying creamy bite. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and low carb.

It’s also a great alternative to heavier pasta-based meals but still gives you that same comfort-food satisfaction. And if you love recipes like Marry Me Chicken Pasta or Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, you’ll definitely want to add this to your rotation.

How to Make Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. You can use boneless, skinless breasts or thighs based on your preference.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this point. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought), and let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Mozzarella
Top each chicken breast with a thick slice of mozzarella cheese. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and broil for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot right from the skillet.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

This dish is very versatile. For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of white wine or heavy cream to the sauce before simmering. You can swap mozzarella for provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a sharper profile.

If you’re avoiding dairy, use a dairy-free cheese substitute that melts well. Prefer spicier food? Stir in red pepper flakes with the garlic. For a low-sodium option, go with no-salt-added marinara and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

For a heartier meal, lay the chicken over a bed of cooked spaghetti or zoodles before topping it with sauce and cheese.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Mozzarella Chicken is as flexible as it is flavorful. I love serving it with freshly cooked pasta like linguine or fettuccine to soak up all that rich tomato sauce. For a lighter option, zucchini noodles or roasted spaghetti squash work wonderfully. If you’re keeping things low-carb, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli.

Crusty bread is always a hit, especially for mopping up the extra sauce. You can even turn this into a sandwich by placing a piece of the chicken with melted mozzarella in a toasted hoagie roll.

As for drinks, a glass of dry red wine like Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully. If you’re going alcohol-free, a sparkling water with lemon or a chilled iced tea complements the savory flavors well.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a covered skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but for best texture, avoid overheating.

If you want to freeze it, let the chicken cool completely and place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the cheese may change slightly once frozen and reheated, but the flavor stays delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe and stay incredibly juicy.

Do I have to use fresh mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella is best for melting and flavor, but shredded mozzarella or even provolone will work in a pinch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can sear the chicken and prep the sauce earlier in the day. When ready to serve, just reheat in the skillet, add cheese, and broil.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your marinara sauce is gluten-free. Always double-check the label if needed.

What sides go best with this chicken?

Pasta, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, and green salads are all fantastic sides that complement the dish beautifully.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed this Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken Recipe, you’ll definitely want to try some of my other reader-favorite chicken dishes. For something creamy and bold, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta is rich, flavorful, and perfect for special dinners. It’s loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan in a creamy sauce that clings to pasta in the most irresistible way.

Another must-try is the Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, which brings a velvety garlic cream sauce to tender seared chicken. It’s perfect served over mashed potatoes or steamed veggies.

If you’re a fan of baked Italian-inspired flavors, the Giant Zucchini Parmesan offers a hearty and satisfying vegetarian option that still gives you that cheesy, saucy comfort.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this dish made your dinner routine easier and more delicious, don’t forget to save it for next time. Pin this recipe on your favorite Pinterest board so it’s just a click away when you need a reliable meal. Also, share it on Facebook or Instagram to spread the love with friends and family. Tag me if you do – I absolutely love seeing your creations!

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