Skillet Pizza Chicken

Skillet Pizza Chicken

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pan meal, and that’s exactly why I adore this Skillet Pizza Chicken. Picture a busy weeknight when everyone’s tired from the hustle and bustle, but the craving for something delicious strikes. This dish combines all the elements of a classic pizza—think bubbling cheese, savory sauce, and zesty toppings—yet it’s served in a unique way that makes it both comforting and exciting. You can whip it up in under an hour, and trust me, your family will be craving seconds.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Difficulty:
Easy
Calories:
420 kcal
Protein:
32 g
Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
28 g
Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Skillet, Wooden Spoon

The Best Thing About This Skillet Pizza Chicken

It’s Packed with Flavor

Every bite of this Skillet Pizza Chicken bursts with flavors you know and love. The combination of chicken, pizza sauce, and mozzarella cheese creates a wonderfully savory experience. Plus, with the addition of pepperoni and mushrooms, you’ll get that classic pizza taste without the need for a crust.

Quick and Easy

We all lead busy lives, and this recipe is designed with that in mind. You’ll have a hearty meal ready in just about thirty minutes! On those hectic days, this is a lifesaver. You can go from prep to plate in no time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

One-Pan Wonder

Not only is this dish delicious, but it also simplifies cleanup. Everything is made in one skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash after dinner. I love how this recipe allows me to focus on enjoying the meal rather than stressing about tidying up.

Customizable Toppings

What’s great about the Skillet Pizza Chicken is its versatility. You’re not limited to just pepperoni and mushrooms. Feel free to toss in whatever veggies or meats you love! Whether you prefer bell peppers, olives, or even pineapple, you can easily make it your own.

Kid-Friendly

This is a dish that even the pickiest eaters will love. The cheesy, pizza-like flavors resonate with kids, making it an easy sell at the dinner table. Plus, it’s a fun way for them to enjoy chicken, which can sometimes be a tough sell.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, the Skillet Pizza Chicken fits right in. It’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone and is sure to impress your guests.

What You’ll Need for Skillet Pizza Chicken

Skillet Pizza Chicken

When preparing for this Skillet Pizza Chicken, it’s all about using quality ingredients that work well together. The star of the dish is, of course, the chicken, which soaks up the delicious flavors from the pizza sauce and spices. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the rich mozzarella cheese to the slightly spicy pepper flakes. Together, they create a delightful comfort food experience.

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautĂ©ing and adding richness.
  • 8 ounces sliced mushrooms – Adds earthy flavor and texture.
  • 1 clove garlic – Brings aromatic depth to the dish.
  • 1 pound chicken breast tenders – The protein base of the meal.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon pepper – Adds subtle heat.
  • ½ teaspoon oregano – A classic herb for any pizza.
  • Pinch red pepper flakes – A touch of spice to kick it up.
  • 1 cup pizza sauce – The essential pizza component.
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully over everything.
  • Pepperoni and sliced olives or other pizza toppings – Customize to your taste!

Putting Together Skillet Pizza Chicken

Skillet Pizza Chicken

Making this Skillet Pizza Chicken is a straightforward process that you’ll enjoy. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Let’s get cooking!

  1. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. It should shimmer but not smoke, indicating it’s ready for the next ingredients.
  2. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about two minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
  3. Next, introduce the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it in and cook for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that aromatic garlic scent filling the kitchen.
  4. While the mushrooms and garlic are working their magic, take your chicken tenders and sprinkle them evenly with salt, pepper, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This seasoning will infuse the chicken with flavor.
  5. After the mushrooms are done, push them to the edges of the skillet. In the center, arrange the seasoned chicken tenders. Sear them for about three to four minutes until they turn golden brown.
  6. Flip the tenders over and repeat the process on the other side. Make sure they’re cooked through and nicely browned.
  7. Now it’s time for the star ingredient: add the pizza sauce right into the skillet, spreading it over the chicken and mushrooms. Cover with a lid and let it cook until the chicken is almost done.
  8. Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and any additional toppings like sliced olives over the top. Cover again and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about five to seven minutes.
  9. When you see that delicious, gooey cheese, it’s time to serve! Carefully remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a minute.
  10. Finally, use a spatula to gently portion out the Skillet Pizza Chicken onto plates and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Cooking Chicken: Ensure the chicken breast is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
  • SautĂ©ing Mushrooms: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when sautĂ©ing. This allows them to brown properly.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar for a different flavor profile.
  • Serving: This dish is best served immediately while the cheese is melty and the chicken tender.

Making Adjustments

Skillet Pizza Chicken

Even though the Skillet Pizza Chicken is fantastic on its own, there are always ways to tailor it to your taste! Here are some tips for making it truly yours.

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
  • Pairing: Serve it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors.
  • Variations: Experiment with different toppings like bell peppers or even a drizzle of pesto for added flavor.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
  • Cooking Method: If you’re short on time, you can prepare this in an Instant Pot instead of a skillet.

Serving Options for Skillet Pizza Chicken

Serving the Skillet Pizza Chicken can be as creative as the dish itself. Here are some ideas to consider:

  • Family Dinner: This dish works wonderfully for a casual family dinner, bringing everyone together around the table.
  • Game Night: Perfect for game night, serve it alongside some crunchy vegetables for dipping.
  • Lunch Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day; it tastes just as delicious!
  • Side Dishes: Pair it with a refreshing salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Seasonal Touch: In the summer, consider using fresh basil as a garnish to add a touch of freshness.
  • Casual Get-Togethers: This meal is ideal for gatherings, as it’s easy to prepare and serve in one pan.

FAQ

Absolutely! The beauty of the Skillet Pizza Chicken is its versatility. You can substitute the chicken with other meats like turkey or even a mix of ground meats. Just ensure you adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different meats may require different cooking durations to be safe and tender.

While mozzarella is the classic choice for a pizza flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses as well. Cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses can work beautifully in this dish. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt differently, so the texture may vary slightly!

Yes, the Skillet Pizza Chicken is excellent for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in meal prep containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing in the fridge or freezer.

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Besides pepperoni and olives, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even artichokes. The possibilities are endless, so adapt the recipe to suit your personal preferences or what you have on hand!

Conclusion

The Skillet Pizza Chicken stands out as an easy, comforting dish that brings the joy of pizza right to your table. With its rich flavors and customizable toppings, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give it a try—it’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic meal in a whole new way!

Skillet Pizza Chicken

Skillet Pizza Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Skillet Pizza Chicken combines all your favorite pizza flavors into a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, savory sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a delicious meal everyone will love!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 pound chicken breast tenders
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese
  • pepperoni and sliced olives or other pizza toppings

Equipment

  • Frying Pan
  • Chef's Knife
  • Skillet
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook just about 2 minutes, then add garlic and cook, stirring, 1 minute more.
  2. Meanwhile, sprinkle the chicken with the salt, pepper, oregano, and pepper flakes. Push the mushrooms to the edges of the pan. Place chicken tenders in the center of the pan. Cook about 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden, then flip and do the same on the other side.
  3. Add the pizza sauce to the pan. Cover and cook until the chicken is almost cooked through.
  4. Add the cheese, pepperoni, and olives and cover and cook until cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Tip 2: This dish can be frozen. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
  • Tip 3: Serve it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors.
  • Tip 4: Experiment with different toppings like bell peppers or even a drizzle of pesto for added flavor.
  • Tip 5: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.

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