EASY CHICKEN MOZZARELLA BAKE
This Chicken Mozzarella Bake recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Tender, juicy chicken is smothered in a rich tomato sauce and blanketed with bubbly, golden mozzarella. It's a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large bowl
- Small bowl
- Oven
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 24 oz jar of marinara sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- If chicken breasts are very thick, slice them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking.
- In a bowl, drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Arrange the mozzarella cheese slices on top of the sauce, covering the chicken.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the Chicken Mozzarella Bake rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
Store any leftover Chicken Mozzarella Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating can help prevent it from drying out. For variations, try adding red pepper flakes, pesto, or sun-dried tomatoes. Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts, adjusting cooking time accordingly.