Description
This Quick & Easy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a simple and delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts, gooey mozzarella cheese, and zesty marinara sauce create an incredibly satisfying flavor explosion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder on both sides.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce. Carefully place the seared chicken breasts back in the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece.
- Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken, covering each piece completely.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once removed from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for enhanced flavor.
- Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes before cutting for easier serving.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the marinara sauce for extra spice.
- Substitute chicken thighs or turkey cutlets for chicken breasts.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- This dish is gluten-free if your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 40g