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Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe

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4.9 from 107 reviews

A delicious and easy Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake featuring tender, seared chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh basil for a flavorful Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Sauces and Oils

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cheeses

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the chicken.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
  3. Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a well-rounded flavor base.
  4. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear each side until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, to lock in juices and add texture.
  5. Arrange Chicken: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over them for moisture and added taste.
  6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each chicken breast for a cheesy, savory topping.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
  8. Rest Dish: Remove from oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set slightly.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and a fresh herbal note, then serve hot.

Notes

  • Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
  • Using an oven-proof skillet allows you to sear and bake the chicken with less cleanup.
  • You can substitute marinara sauce with your favorite tomato sauce if preferred.
  • For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or marinara sauce.
  • Serve with a side of pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake, Italian chicken recipe, baked chicken breasts, mozzarella chicken, Parmesan chicken bake

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