Cheesy One-Pan Skillet Chicken With Tomatoes
Recipe Overview
Overview
This Cheesy One-Pan Skillet Chicken With Tomatoes is a delightful twist on traditional pizza flavors, combining the best elements of a pizza into a hearty chicken dish. Melissa Clark expertly guides you through the process, starting with crispy pancetta that infuses the dish with a savory richness. The chicken, seasoned and browned to perfection, is then nestled into a bubbling sauce of tomatoes and garlic, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
The use of whole tomatoes instead of diced ones is a clever choice, as it allows for a thicker sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. As the dish bakes, the mozzarella melts into a gooey layer, creating that irresistible cheese pull that everyone loves. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for weeknight dinners, ensuring that you can whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
What stands out is the versatility of this dish; you can serve it as is or over pasta for a heartier meal. The combination of flavors is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to recipe for family gatherings or casual entertaining. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, this skillet chicken is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Gather all ingredients including chicken, pancetta, garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
Tip: Start with a little oil to help render the fat from the pancetta.
Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add pancetta to the skillet and cook until browned.
Brown chicken legs in the rendered fat from the pancetta.
Tip: Avoid crowding the pan when browning chicken to ensure even cooking.
Tip: Use dark meat chicken for a more forgiving cooking process.
Remove a couple of tablespoons of fat from the skillet.
Sauté garlic in the remaining hot fat.
Tip: Anchovies can be added whole as they will disintegrate and enhance the flavor.
Add tomatoes to the skillet and break them up.
Add a little basil to the sauce.
Tip: Diced tomatoes can be used, but they may not create as saucy a dish.
Return the browned chicken to the skillet.
Place the skillet in a 400° oven to finish cooking the chicken.
Tip: Cook the chicken for about 30 minutes or until it is no longer pink.
Add cheese on top of the chicken before broiling.
Tip: Sprinkle pancetta on top as a crunchy, salty garnish.
Tip: The dish can be served over pasta to utilize the pan juices.
Serve the dish with a sprinkle of pancetta on top.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Almond Milk
Ingredient: Fish
→ Substitution: Capers
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Using bone-in chicken pieces helps retain moisture and flavor during cooking.
- •Pancetta adds a rich, savory depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
- •Browning the chicken in its own fat creates a delicious base for the sauce.
- •Using whole tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes results in a thicker, more flavorful sauce.
