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Chicken Mozzarella Bake

A comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring juicy chicken breasts, tangy marinara, and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 medium medium chicken breasts Choose organic or free-range for the best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder If you have fresh garlic, feel free to use it instead—about 2 cloves minced.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning This versatile blend really enhances the flavor profile.
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt Add freshly cracked black pepper for extra kick.
  • 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce I recommend brands like Rao’s or Barilla for authentic taste!
  • ⅓ cup sliced fresh basil This adds a burst of freshness (optional in winter months).
  • 8 ounces cherry tomatoes These contribute a sweet pop when roasted.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Always go for fresh mozzarella for that delightful stretch!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  2. Drizzle chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Kosher salt, adding a dash of ground black pepper.
  3. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, mix marinara sauce with sliced basil and taste for seasoning.
  4. Nestle the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the marinara and scatter cherry tomato halves around the chicken.
Baking
  1. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the center of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
  2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and switch to broiling for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
  1. Allow the bake to cool slightly, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

The dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Consider additional ingredients for customization, such as sautéed vegetables or different types of cheese.