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Mozzarella Chicken Bake

Mozzarella Chicken Bake
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Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a quick, creamy, and cheesy baked chicken dish ready in under 30 minutes. It features tender chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs. This comforting and family-friendly meal is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs well with various sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Sauce and Cheese

  • 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to ensure flavorful and juicy chicken after baking.
  2. Assemble the Bake: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon marinara or tomato sauce generously over each piece, then cover each breast with a thick layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring they are well covered.
  3. Bake It to Perfection: Bake the dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden in spots. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top to add color and fresh aroma before serving.

Notes

  • Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Use fresh mozzarella slices instead of shredded for extra creaminess.
  • Apply just enough sauce to keep the bake moist without making it watery.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to lock in juices.
  • Maintain oven temperature at 400°F to ensure the cheese melts and browns nicely.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mozzarella Chicken Bake, cheesy chicken bake, quick chicken dinner, baked chicken with mozzarella, gluten-free chicken recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/mozzarella-chicken-bake/