Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake
Tender chicken breasts baked with savory seasonings, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting and flavorful family-friendly casserole.
Equipment
- 1 oven preheated to 375°F
- 1 skillet for searing chicken
- 1 baking dish lightly greased
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
- 2 to 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over and around the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top and add Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Try swapping marinara with Alfredo or pesto for different flavors.
- Mix provolone or fontina with mozzarella for richer cheese.
- Add spinach or roasted peppers beneath cheese for extra veggies.
- Pairs well with garlic bread or roasted vegetables.