Description
This Chicken Mozzarella Bake is a comforting, cheesy, and flavor-packed Italian-American dish featuring juicy chicken breasts baked in marinara sauce with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
- Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish and spoon marinara sauce over each piece.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan evenly over the chicken.
- Add a pinch of Italian seasoning on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven, then garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- You can use boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave with a damp paper towel to prevent the cheese from drying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
