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Baked Chicken with Mozzarella and Marinara

Baked Chicken with Mozzarella and Marinara
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A quick and easy baked chicken dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. This Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, uses minimal ingredients, and offers a comforting, flavorful meal that pairs beautifully with pasta, salad, or bread.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil blend)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat dry the chicken breasts and brush them lightly with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to infuse each bite with flavor.
  2. Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, allowing the meat to cook through and start developing a golden exterior.
  3. Add Marinara and Mozzarella: Remove the chicken from the oven and spread a hearty layer of marinara sauce evenly over each piece. Top each chicken breast with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese, ready to melt and bubble perfectly.
  4. Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown spots.
  5. Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving this delicious Baked Chicken with Mozzarella and Marinara hot from the oven.

Notes

  • Use even-sized chicken breasts to ensure uniform cooking and avoid dryness.
  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help the seasonings stick better and encourage browning.
  • Opt for whole milk mozzarella for creamier melting and richer flavor.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking dish to allow the chicken to cook evenly and the cheese to melt properly.
  • Check internal temperature to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and best juiciness.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken, mozzarella, marinara, Italian chicken, quick dinner, weeknight recipe, cheesy chicken, easy chicken bake

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/baked-chicken-with-mozzarella-and-marinara/