Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy & Flavorful: The combination of mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce creates a savory, cheesy topping that everyone will love.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time and only a few ingredients, this dish is simple to make, yet looks and tastes like a gourmet meal.
Low-Carb & High-Protein: This dish is perfect for those following a low-carb, keto, or high-protein diet.
Perfect for Meal Prep: It reheats well, so you can prepare it ahead of time for a quick and satisfying meal during the week.
Family-Friendly: The flavors are familiar and comforting, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup marinara sauce (preferably sugar-free)
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and basil on both sides.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage since it will finish baking in the oven.
Assemble the Dish: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a green salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
Use Different Cheeses: Swap the mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce for a spicy twist.
Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful alternative to chicken breasts.
Make it Low-Carb: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, make sure to use a sugar-free marinara sauce and serve with low-carb sides like zucchini noodles or a salad.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover Chicken Mozzarella Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them fully before searing and baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly. Just make sure it’s sugar-free if you’re following a low-carb or keto diet.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can use a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, or even a bit of cream cheese for added richness.

What can I serve with Chicken Mozzarella Bake?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, a fresh green salad, or zucchini noodles.

Can I add more vegetables to the bake?

Yes, adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce will enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Yes, you can grill the chicken before adding the marinara and cheese. Just ensure the chicken is fully cooked through before assembling the bake.

How long does this dish last in the fridge?

It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese options to make this dish dairy-free. Just make sure to choose a good melting variety for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Mozzarella Bake is a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet, need a quick family dinner, or just love cheesy chicken dishes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect combination of cheesy comfort food and lean protein.

Chicken Mozzarella Bake

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This Chicken Mozzarella Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with melty mozzarella cheese, savory marinara sauce, and a golden, bubbly topping. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. It’s low-carb, high in protein, and full of flavor, making it an ideal option for a satisfying meal.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 30min
Total Time: 40min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and basil on both sides.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage since it will finish baking in the oven.
Assemble the Dish: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a green salad.