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A saucy one-pan chicken parmesan skillet with melted cheese and fresh herbs

One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Skillet with Spicy Zucchini

This One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Skillet with Spicy Zucchini is a delicious and easy weeknight meal, featuring tender chicken cutlets, rich marinara, melted mozzarella, and a hint of spice.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Breakfast
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 (24-28 oz) marinara sauce choose a low-sugar option for lower carb
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese sliced or torn into pieces
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for spice
  • medium zucchini thinly sliced or spiralized (for lower carb option)
  • Fresh basil a few leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron or heavy-bottomed)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and pat chicken cutlets dry; season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear chicken cutlets for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
  4. Sauté thinly sliced zucchini in the same skillet for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp, if using.
  5. Pour half of the marinara sauce into the skillet, spreading evenly, and stir in red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Nestle the seared chicken into the sauce, cover with the remaining marinara, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  8. Rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Notes

For a lower carb option, ensure your marinara sauce is low in sugar. If you prefer less spice, omit the red pepper flakes. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your chicken cutlets. Letting the skillet rest allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender chicken.