Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Skillet Cheesy Pizza Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 45 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Skillet Cheesy Pizza Chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of Italian pizza flavors with tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked in a skillet. The chicken is seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and Italian herbs, then topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, diced bell peppers, and optional olives. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Toppings

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
  • ½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to build a flavorful base.
  2. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, allowing it to warm up thoroughly before adding the chicken.
  3. Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook each side for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and thoroughly cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reads 165°F (75°C) for safety.
  4. Add Marinara Sauce: Reduce heat to low and pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the cooked chicken breasts in the skillet, covering them well.
  5. Top with Cheese and Veggies: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauced chicken. Then add diced bell peppers and optional sliced black olives evenly across the top.
  6. Cover and Melt Cheese: Place a lid on the skillet to trap steam and heat. Let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully and becomes bubbly.
  7. Garnish: Remove the lid and let the dish cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, fresh finish if desired.
  8. Serve: Transfer the cheesy pizza chicken to plates and spoon some of the sauce from the skillet over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy a flavorful, comforting dinner.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
  • Bell peppers add a nice crunch and sweetness but can be omitted or substituted with other vegetables.
  • For a spicier flavor, add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a skillet or microwave.
  • Use fresh marinara sauce or your favorite jarred variety for convenience.