Cheesy mozzarella chicken bake is the perfect comfort food when you’re in the mood for something hearty, warm, and packed with flavor. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich layer of marinara sauce and plenty of melted mozzarella cheese, creating a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this cheesy bake is ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend family gatherings when you want to impress with minimal effort.

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The recipe starts with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. The chicken is then seared in olive oil to achieve a golden-brown exterior and locked-in moisture. Once cooked, the chicken is smothered in marinara sauce and topped with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baking the chicken in the oven allows the cheese to melt into gooey perfection, creating a bubbly, golden crust that complements the savory sauce and tender chicken inside.

One of the best things about this mozzarella chicken bake is its versatility. You can easily add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a healthy twist, or sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. The richness of the marinara sauce, combined with the cheese, creates a comforting, balanced flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Mozzarella cheese, known for its creamy, mild flavor, plays a starring role in this dish. Originally from southern Italy, mozzarella has become one of the most popular cheeses in the world, thanks to its excellent melting qualities and delicious stretchiness when baked. In this recipe, the mozzarella melts over the chicken and sauce, creating a satisfying, cheesy blanket that seals in all the flavors of the dish. Paired with the sharp, nutty Parmesan, the cheeses elevate this simple chicken bake into a rich, decadent meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving - 1 Chicken Breast with Cheese):

• • - Calories: 430 kcal
  • - Fat: 25g
  • - Carbohydrates: 7g
  • - Protein: 45g
  • - Sugar: 4g

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Storage Tips:

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

- This cheesy chicken bake can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.

Fun Fact:

Mozzarella cheese is traditionally made from the milk of water buffalo, which gives it its distinctively soft and creamy texture. However, the more commonly available cow’s milk mozzarella still offers that delicious melt-in-your-mouth experience we all love, making it perfect for dishes like this cheesy chicken bake!

A Closer Look at the Cheese and Marinara Combo:

The combination of cheese and marinara sauce is a classic pairing that elevates simple dishes into something extraordinary. Marinara, a tomato-based sauce, adds tangy acidity and a burst of flavor to the dish, while the mozzarella cheese brings creaminess and richness, balancing the sharpness of the tomatoes. In this recipe, the sauce seeps into the chicken, keeping it moist, while the cheese creates a decadent, bubbly layer on top. The Parmesan cheese, with its nutty, salty flavor, adds an extra layer of complexity and perfectly complements the mild mozzarella. This simple yet flavorful combination makes this dish a standout dinner option.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

- Pair with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, to complement the marinara sauce.

- Add a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a complete meal.

- For a heartier option, serve the chicken bake over a bed of pasta or risotto.

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Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe

Ingredients:

• - 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• - Salt and pepper to taste
• - 2 tablespoons olive oil
• - 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
• - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

2. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

4. Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure to cover each piece evenly.

5. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses generously over the top of the chicken.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

8. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.

This cheesy mozzarella chicken bake is a simple, comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy the whole family. With its tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and cheesy topping, it’s a meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor!