Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

This Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. Juicy chicken breasts are nestled in rich marinara sauce, blanketed with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, and baked to bubbly perfection. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients: Only 7 common ingredients needed.
• Quick and Easy: Prep in minutes and let the oven do the work.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Bake:
   • Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
   • Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
4. Bake to Perfection:
   • Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • For a golden top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot with pasta, rice, or a side salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicier Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce.
• Herbaceous Twist: Mix Italian seasoning or fresh basil into the sauce for extra flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zoodles (zucchini noodles) or roasted vegetables.
• Cheese Lovers: Add a layer of ricotta or provolone for an extra creamy bake.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy during baking.

2. What type of marinara sauce is best?

Use a high-quality store-bought marinara or homemade sauce for the best flavor.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

4. Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded?

Absolutely. Fresh mozzarella adds a creamier texture but may require a slightly longer baking time to melt fully.

5. What can I serve with this dish?

Serve it with garlic bread, a green salad, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

6. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but reduce the baking time to prevent overcooking.

8. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, assemble the dish, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

9. Can I add vegetables to the bake?

Certainly! Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the marinara sauce for extra nutrition.

10. How can I make this dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and ensure the marinara sauce is free of dairy.

Conclusion

Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Give it a try and enjoy a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal!

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