When it comes to quick and easy dinner ideas, one skillet meals are a lifesaver. Not only do they save on dishes, but they also allow you to combine different flavors and ingredients into one delicious dish.
If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine and love the creamy, stretchy goodness of mozzarella cheese, then you’re going to love this recipe for mozzarella chicken thighs in one skillet.
This recipe is a perfect combination of juicy chicken thighs, flavorful tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese, all cooked together in one pan for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with protein and veggies, making it a well-rounded meal for any night of the week. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make this delicious and wholesome dish!
What ingredients do I need for one skillet chicken thighs?
- 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1½ tablespoon Italian seasoning, divided
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cups chicken broth, preferably organic
- ½ cups multi-colored cherry tomatoes, quartered*
- 8 oz. fresh Mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Sprigs fresh basil (optional)
Helpful tools for this recipe
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife set
How to make mozzarella chicken thighs?
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
3. Rub the chicken thighs with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle both sides with one tablespoon Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and transfer to the hot skillet.
4. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken develops a golden crust. Remove from heat and add butter, chicken broth, and cherry tomatoes.
Top each chicken thigh with a slice of fresh Mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and remaining Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and black pepper, if desired.
5. Transfer skillet into pre-heated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the Mozzarella is melted. Remove from oven and allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes.
6. To serve, top chicken with some pan sauce and fresh basil sprigs, if desired. Serve immediately with loaded cauliflower au gratin for a complete LCHF meal or your choice of sides. Enjoy!
How to store mozzarella chicken thighs?
After cooking mozzarella chicken thighs, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to ensure that they stay fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips on how to store your chicken thighs:
Let the chicken cool down: Before storing the chicken thighs, let them cool down to room temperature. This will prevent any condensation from forming in the container, which can lead to bacterial growth.
Divide into portions: Divide the chicken thighs into individual portions to make it easier to reheat later on.
Use airtight containers: Store the chicken thighs in airtight containers to prevent any air or moisture from getting in. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the container.
Store in the fridge: Place the containers in the fridge as soon as possible after cooking. Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to four days.
Reheat properly: When reheating the chicken, make sure it’s heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
By following these simple steps, you can store your mozzarella chicken thighs safely and enjoy them as a tasty meal later on.
How to reheat chicken thighs?
When it comes to reheating mozzarella chicken thighs, it’s important to do it properly to avoid overcooking the chicken and ensure that the cheese stays melty and delicious. Here are some ways to reheat Mozzarella Chicken Thighs:
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave: Place the chicken thighs in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through.
Regardless of the method you choose, make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should be at least 165°F (74°C) before consuming. Additionally, avoid reheating the chicken more than once as this can lead to overcooking and loss of flavor. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your mozzarella chicken thighs as a delicious and easy-to-reheat meal.