If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with gooey mozzarella cheese and a medley of flavorful ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal preparation and can be on your table in under an hour.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy, savory flavors that make this dish a hit at any dinner table.
- Versatile: You can customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious cheesy bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken breasts
- Mozzarella cheese
- Marinara sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil (optional for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in the flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
3. Add the Marinara Sauce
Once the chicken is seared, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This tangy sauce adds depth and moisture to the dish.
4. Top with Mozzarella
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the chicken and sauce. The cheese will melt beautifully and create a deliciously gooey topping.
5. Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve hot with your favorite side dishes, such as garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella will give you the best texture and flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the marinara sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare this dish in advance and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to your dinner table. With its melt-in-your-mouth cheese and savory chicken, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts
- Mozzarella cheese
- Marinara sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil (optional)
Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a hearty meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
