Baked Chicken with Mozzarella and Marinara
This Baked Chicken with Mozzarella and Marinara recipe offers a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that combines tender chicken breasts with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, it features simple, fresh ingredients and classic Italian flavors that satisfy both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 to 1 ½ cups fresh or shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- Thinly sliced zucchini or spinach (to layer under sauce)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Lightly coat each breast with olive oil, then season evenly with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step ensures the chicken is flavorful and juicy after baking.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, just enough time to cook the chicken through while keeping it moist for the sauce and cheese topping.
- Add Mozzarella and Marinara: Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon generous amounts of marinara sauce over each breast, then top with slices or shredded mozzarella cheese. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the chicken before serving. Serve hot with your choice of sides like a green salad, roasted vegetables, or low-carb options such as steamed broccoli or cauliflower mash.
Notes
- Choose even-sized chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier and better melt.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.
- Warm the marinara sauce slightly before spreading to enhance flavor absorption.
- Watch the cheese closely to avoid overbaking and a rubbery texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: baked chicken, mozzarella, marinara, easy dinner, Italian, healthy comfort food, kid-friendly, gluten free