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Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe

Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 10 reviews

This Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts baked with savory marinara sauce, garlic seasoning, and a rich blend of parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. It’s perfect for a comforting family meal that combines Italian flavors with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

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Chicken

  • 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Sauce & Cheese

  • 1.5 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when the chicken is prepared.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and rub them with olive oil. Season each piece evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a light golden crust. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor.
  4. Arrange chicken in baking dish: Transfer the seared chicken breasts into a baking dish in a single layer, ensuring they fit comfortably without overlapping.
  5. Add marinara sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, covering them generously to keep the chicken moist while baking.
  6. Top with cheeses: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the marinara sauce, followed by an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  8. Rest and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve hot with your favorite side dish.

Notes

  • To add extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian dressing for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Use low-sodium marinara sauce to control the salt content if preferred.
  • For a thicker sauce, simmer your marinara on the stove for 10 minutes before using.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
  • Optional: sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the finished dish for garnish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake, baked chicken recipe, Italian chicken bake, easy dinner recipes, chicken parmesan style

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