Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that feels fancy without the effort? Mozzarella Baked Chicken is the perfect answer. This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a flavorful marinara sauce and topped with gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. The combination of Italian herbs, fresh garlic, and Parmesan adds a burst of flavor, while the simple preparation makes it ideal for busy evenings. Serve it alongside pasta, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both kid-friendly and elegant enough for guests!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or ovenproof skillet with olive oil.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. (They don’t need to be fully cooked, as they’ll finish in the oven.)
- Assemble the dish: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Bake: Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your Mozzarella Baked Chicken with your favorite sides for a comforting and flavorful meal!
