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Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

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This Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a hearty, flavor-packed dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Italian herbs. It’s an easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining, delivering restaurant-quality results at home.

 

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Bake:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to fit the chicken breasts.
  • Prepare the Chicken:
    • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden (the chicken won’t be fully cooked at this stage). Remove from heat.
  • Assemble the Bake:
    • Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange the seared chicken breasts on top.
    • Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  • Bake the Chicken:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • Serving Suggestions: Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Customization: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor.

Keywords: Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake, mozzarella chicken, chicken casserole, baked chicken recipe, marinara chicken, easy dinner recipe, Italian chicken dish, weeknight dinner ideas.

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