Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The crispy, cheesy top combined with tender chicken makes every bite a delight. It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and you can add your own personal twist to it. The ingredients are simple, and the bake can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy nights. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one dish, reducing clean-up time!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, and oregano.

3. Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side, just enough to get a light golden crust.

4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.

5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken.

6. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken breasts with eggplant slices for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

• Add Veggies: Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Version: Spice up your bake with red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a bit of heat.

• Cheese Variations: For a different flavor, try mixing in provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of just mozzarella.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, just add the cheese and bake.

3. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

This bake pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta, rice, or a simple green salad.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Just ensure the chicken is fully cooked, and store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

6. Can I add extra sauce to the dish?

Certainly! If you prefer more sauce, you can add an extra cup of marinara sauce before baking.

7. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the chicken on low for 3-4 hours in a slow cooker, adding the cheese towards the end, about 30 minutes before it’s finished cooking.

8. How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

To prevent dry chicken, avoid overcooking the chicken. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are seared before baking helps lock in moisture.

9. Can I make this dish without marinara sauce?

Yes, you can substitute the marinara with Alfredo sauce for a creamy version of this dish.

10. How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

For a crispier texture, try broiling the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking to crisp up the cheese topping.

Conclusion

Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It combines the best of cheesy goodness with tender chicken, and it’s versatile enough to be customized to your tastes. With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.