Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and delicious? This Chicken Mozzarella recipe is a perfect choice! Combining tender chicken breasts with gooey mozzarella cheese and a savory tomato sauce, this dish is sure to impress family and friends. It’s an ideal recipe for a weeknight meal when you want something quick but still full of flavor. What makes this recipe stand out is the simplicity of its ingredients and the richness of its taste. With a few pantry staples and just a bit of cooking time, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant. Chicken Mozzarella is versatile and can be served with pasta, rice, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Read on to learn how to make a family-favorite dinner that’s bound to be a regular in your meal rotation!
2. Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
3. Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked through.
Pour marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan, if desired.
Serve hot with your favorite side dish.
4. How to Prepare
Preparation for Chicken Mozzarella starts by getting the chicken ready. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, which helps them brown better. Season both sides with a mixture of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a nice flavor base. Next, sear the chicken in a skillet with some olive oil, adding minced garlic for a fragrant touch. The goal here is to get a nice golden crust on the outside, not to cook the chicken through just yet. After searing, pour a generous amount of marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with mozzarella. Make sure you’re using an oven-safe skillet, as the dish will finish cooking in the oven. The final step is to bake it until the cheese is gooey and slightly browned, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-browning.
5. Preparation Time
Active Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4 people, making it a great option for a family dinner or a small gathering.
7. FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They may require a few additional minutes in the oven to ensure they’re fully cooked.
2. What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken in a regular skillet and then transfer everything to a baking dish before putting it in the oven.
3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, or cut into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink.
4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the skillet before adding the marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step. Store the skillet covered in the fridge for up to a day, then bake it when ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
