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Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe

I can’t wait to share this Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake with you! Last night, I whipped up this easy yet incredibly satisfying dish, and wow, it was a total home run.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium chicken breasts: Choose fresh evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing and locking in flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor to complement the marinara.
  • 1 ½ cups marinara sauce: Use a high-quality jarred sauce or homemade for the best taste.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Be sure to use fresh mozzarella for that gooey melty topping.
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a salty nutty flavor that balances the dish.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final presentation.

Method
 

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Generously season both sides of your chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sear each chicken breast for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step ensures the chicken develops a beautiful golden crust and stays juicy.
  3. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to your greased baking dish. Pour marinara sauce generously over each piece, ensuring they’re well-coated. Top the marinara with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella. The duo of cheeses creates a richly flavorful crust that’s irresistible.
  4. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reads 165°F internally on a thermometer and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
  5. For that restaurant-style touch, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes to lightly brown the cheese. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
  6. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This step locks in the juices, making every bite tender and flavorful. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a vibrant finish, and serve immediately!

Notes

  • Don’t Skip Searing: This quick step adds deep flavor and a great texture to the chicken.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and grated Parmesan elevate the dish to restaurant-quality.
  • Pick a Quality Marinara: A good sauce makes all the difference, so choose wisely or make your own!
  • Check the Internal Temp: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked but not overdone.
  • Don’t Over-Broil: Keep a close eye during broiling to achieve golden cheese without burning it.