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Chicken Pizzaiola

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Chicken Pizzaiola is a flavorful Italian-inspired dish where tender chicken is simmered in a zesty tomato sauce with garlic, herbs, and melty mozzarella. It’s like a pizza-flavored chicken skillet—quick, comforting, and perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella (sliced) or 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
  • Optional: 1/4 cup sliced black olives or 1 tbsp capers

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and additional salt and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
  5. Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (165°F).
  6. Top each chicken piece with mozzarella. Cover to melt or broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
  7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use boneless thighs for extra juiciness.
  • Searing adds flavor but can be skipped to save time—just cook chicken fully in the sauce.
  • Great served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
  • To reduce heat, skip the red pepper flakes.
  • Refrigerates well for up to 4 days and freezes for up to 2 months.

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