Skip to recipe

This golden, garlicky chicken skillet is pure weeknight magic—ready in under 30 minutes, all in one pan. Juicy chicken thighs (or breasts) simmer in a rich tomato-basil sauce, topped with crispy pancetta and melty mozzarella for the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you serve it with crusty bread, pasta, or a simple green salad, this dish feels fancy without the fuss—and it’s totally family-approved.

Skillet Pancetta Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 oz pancetta, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (14–15 oz) can crushed or whole peeled tomatoes, lightly crushed
• 1 sprig fresh basil (or 1 tablespoon chopped, plus more for garnish)
• 6–8 oz fresh mozzarella or bocconcini, sliced or torn
• Optional: Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or a green salad

Directions:

1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook, stirring often, until browned and crispy (about 4–5 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to transfer pancetta to a paper towel–lined plate.
3. In the same skillet, add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. (Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through yet—it will finish in the sauce.) Remove to a plate.
4. Add garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for 30–60 seconds. Stir in the tomatoes and basil. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Option 1 (Stovetop): Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, sprinkle with pancetta and mozzarella. Cover and cook on low for 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through.

Option 2 (Broiler): Return chicken to skillet and top with sauce, pancetta, and mozzarella. Transfer skillet to the oven and broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. (Ensure your skillet is oven-safe.)

To finish: Garnish with extra basil. Serve with bread, pasta, or salad.

Click HERE for a Downloadable Recipe Card!

Check out some more 30 minute recipes!!

Hi I’m Teresa!

I’m a mom to three, a wife and a physician assistant. I also have a degree in Nutritional Sciences and I love sharing all things life with you! I am passionate about empowering you through education, sharing all my fave products and items that have made life better and creating content to give you value!