Go Back
cheesy mozzarella chicken bake
Admin

cheesy mozzarella chicken bake

Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a classic, no-fuss dinner recipe that brings together tender chicken breasts, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy and indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with garlic bread for a hearty and family-friendly dish that’s always a winner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner
Calories: 360
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 ½ cups marinara or tomato basil sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
  3. For extra flavor and moisture, you can lightly sear the chicken in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side before baking. This step is optional but recommended.
  4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over the top of each piece. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
  5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm over pasta, rice, or with roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
  • Freezing: Freeze the baked chicken (once cooled) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.