The Best Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe You’ll Love

Crispy golden edges and melted mozzarella chicken bake promise pure comfort on your dinner plate tonight.

Bubbling cheese creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.

Mediterranean herbs and tender chicken combine in a delightful one-pan miracle.

Surprisingly simple ingredients transform an ordinary weeknight meal into something spectacular.

Weeknight dinners demand quick solutions, and this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Succulent chicken nestled beneath a blanket of gooey cheese will make everyone at the table cheer.

Dive in and discover how effortlessly delicious home cooking can be.

Different Styles of Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

• Low-Carb Zucchini Alternative: Replace marinara sauce with sliced zucchini and use fewer carbohydrate-dense ingredients for a keto-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute mozzarella and parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives made from nuts or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially marinara sauce, and use gluten-free spices to accommodate sensitive diets.
• Mediterranean Herb Remix: Incorporate fresh herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme into the chicken seasoning for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor enhancement.

FAQs

• Why sear the chicken before baking?

Searing locks in moisture and creates a flavorful golden-brown exterior that adds depth to the chicken’s taste and texture.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone or swap some of the cheese for monterey jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F, which ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy.

• What marinara sauce works best?

Choose a high-quality marinara with rich tomato flavor. Homemade or store-bought jarred sauce both work well, depending on your preference and time availability.

Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe Benefits

• Quick and Easy Preparation: Whip up this delightful chicken dish with minimal effort and basic cooking skills, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor-Packed Comfort Food: Dive into a mouthwatering combination of tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella that creates a crowd-pleasing meal guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the dinner table.
• Versatile Weeknight Winner: Impress your family or guests with this restaurant-style chicken bake that requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it an ideal go-to recipe for multiple occasions like casual dinners or meal prep.
• Healthier Homemade Option: Enjoy a nutritious and flavorful alternative to takeout, controlling the ingredients and portion sizes while treating yourself to a deliciously cheesy chicken dish that's both satisfying and wholesome.

What Goes Into Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender meat perfect for this cheesy bake.

• Mozzarella Cheese: Soft, melty cheese that creates a golden topping.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and salty cheese that adds depth of flavor.

• Salt: Classic seasoning to enhance overall taste.
• Black Pepper: Adds a mild spicy kick.
• Garlic Powder: Provides aromatic and savory notes.
• Marinara Sauce: Rich tomato-based sauce for moisture and flavor.

• Olive Oil: Used for searing chicken to lock in juices.
• Cooking Spray or Oil: Helps prevent chicken from sticking to baking dish.

Make Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake in Steps

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Heat the oven to 375°F and slide the rack right into the middle position for perfect cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Pour oil into a skillet over medium-high heat.

Once the pan is blazing hot, sear the chicken for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Transfer the seared chicken to a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Drizzle marinara sauce over the chicken, using a spoon to spread it evenly, making sure every inch of chicken is covered.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese

over the chicken breasts, creating a beautiful cheesy blanket.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven, uncovered, and bake for 15-20 minutes.

Smaller chicken breasts need less time, so keep an eye on them.

Step 7: Broil and Brown

Switch to broil for a few minutes to get a gorgeous golden-brown cheese topping.

Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in those juicy flavors.

Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.

Enjoy your cheesy chicken masterpiece!

Smart Tips for Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

• Brown the chicken in a hot skillet before baking to lock in rich, deep flavors and create a delicious golden exterior.
• Use freshly grated mozzarella for better melting and more even coverage across the chicken breasts.
• Adjust baking time based on chicken breast thickness – smaller breasts need less time to prevent drying out.
• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe 165F internal temperature without overcooking.
• Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking to help juices redistribute, guaranteeing tender and moist meat.

Saving and Reheating Chicken Mozzarella Bake

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days for best quality and food safety.
• Warm chicken in a preheated 350F oven for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent cheese from burning and maintain moisture.
• Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes on medium power. Pause halfway to stir and ensure even heating. Add a splash of marinara sauce to prevent dryness.
• Wrap cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

What Pairs with Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

• Pair with Crisp Tuscan White Wine: Select a light, acidic white wine like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino to cut through the richness of the cheesy chicken and complement its marinara base.
• Create Fresh Herb Focaccia Side: Bake a simple herb-infused focaccia bread with rosemary and olive oil to soak up the delicious marinara sauce and provide a perfect textural contrast.
• Serve Bright Mediterranean Salad: Prepare a quick salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette to balance the heavy, cheesy chicken dish and add refreshing elements.
• Match with Roasted Garlic Asparagus: Quickly roast asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a light, green vegetable side that adds nutritional value and complements the chicken's robust flavors.

Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 48 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mozzarella chicken bake brings Italian comfort right to home kitchens with its rich, melted cheese and golden-brown crust. Crispy edges, tender chicken, and gooey cheese create a delightful dinner you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)

Cheese:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375°F and position the cooking rack in the center of the oven for even heating.
2. Thoroughly season chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both surfaces, ensuring comprehensive flavor coverage.
3. Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high temperature until the surface shimmers with heat.
4. Carefully sear each chicken piece for approximately 5 minutes per side, developing a golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture.
5. Transfer seared chicken to a lightly greased rectangular baking dish, arranging the pieces with some space between them.
6. Generously ladle marinara sauce over the chicken, using the back of a spoon to distribute the sauce evenly, completely covering the meat.
7. Create a double-layer cheese topping by first sprinkling parmesan across the chicken, then generously covering with mozzarella cheese.
8. Place the uncovered dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
9. Switch the oven to broil and carefully monitor the cheese as it turns golden and slightly crispy, which typically takes 2-3 minutes.
10. Remove from oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, which helps retain internal juices and ensures the meat reaches a safe 165°F internal temperature.

Notes

• Sear chicken thoroughly to lock in moisture and create a golden, flavorful exterior that seals the juices inside the meat.
• Use fresh mozzarella for a more creamy and authentic texture, which melts beautifully and creates a luxurious cheese layer.
• Adjust baking time based on chicken breast thickness to prevent overcooking and maintain tender, succulent meat.
• For a low-carb option, swap marinara sauce with a homemade sugar-free tomato sauce or use diced fresh tomatoes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 27-33 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 50g
• Cholesterol: 130mg