One-Skillet Mozzarella Chicken Thighs: A Delectable and Effortless Dish
In the realm of weeknight dinners, finding a recipe that combines both ease of preparation and a burst of flavors is akin to discovering culinary gold. Enter the One-Skillet Mozzarella Chicken Thighs – a mouthwatering dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds and save you precious time in the kitchen. With just a single skillet and a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into the art of crafting this delectable masterpiece.
The Magic of One-Skillet Meals
One-skillet meals are a testament to the beauty of efficient cooking. They offer the convenience of preparing an entire meal in a single pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. The One-Skillet Mozzarella Chicken Thighs exemplify this culinary efficiency by combining succulent chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and gooey mozzarella cheese in a symphony of taste and texture.
The combination of tender chicken melted mozzarella, and colorful cherry tomatoes is sure to delight your taste buds. Adding the red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat that balances out the richness of the cheese and butter. This dish can be an excellent option for those following a low-carb or LCHF (low-carb, high-fat) diet.
Ingredients You'll Need
To embark on your journey towards a delectable One-Skillet Mozzarella Chicken Thighs experience, gather these key ingredients:
3 T. extra virgin olive oil, divided
2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1½ T. Italian seasoning, divided
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
3 T. unsalted butter
¼ c. chicken broth, preferably organic
½ c. multi-colored cherry tomatoes, quartered*
8 oz. fresh Mozzarella cheese, sliced
½ t. red pepper flakes
Optional garnish:
Sprigs fresh basil
*Multi-color tomatoes are suggested for visual appeal. Can substitute fresh tomatoes of choice.
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
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.
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.
Transfer skillet into a preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the Mozzarella is melted. Remove from oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes.
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.
Carbs/Serving:
Total Carbs: 2.16g
Fiber: 0.3g
Net Carbs: 1.88g (Total Carbs - Fiber)
This low net carb count is fantastic for those following a low-carb diet, as it helps to keep blood sugar levels stable and promotes a state of ketosis, where the body utilizes fat for energy.
Calorie Breakdown:
Protein: 40%
Fat: 58%
Carbohydrates: 1%
The calorie breakdown showcases the moderate protein content and higher fat content, which is characteristic of a ketogenic or low-carb high-fat diet. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health, while the higher fat content provides a satisfying and satiating meal.
The One-Skillet Mozzarella Chicken Thighs exemplify the art of creating a gourmet meal without the hassle of an elaborate cooking process. With just a single skillet, a handful of ingredients, and a dash of culinary creativity, you can transform ordinary weeknight dinners into extraordinary experiences. Whether you're cooking for yourself, and your family, or impressing guests, this dish is a testament to the power of simplicity and the joy of savoring each bite.
So, the next time you find yourself in search of a convenient yet extraordinary meal, turn to the One-Skillet Mozzarella Chicken Thighs – a recipe that proves that culinary excellence can indeed be achieved with minimal effort.
