Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake, a dish that’s about to become your new weeknight hero! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich tomato sauce, blanketed with a generous layer of melted, bubbly mozzarella cheese. Sounds divine, right? This isn’t just dinner; it’s a comforting hug on a plate.

While the exact origins of this particular bake are a bit hazy, the concept of combining chicken, tomato sauce, and cheese has roots in Italian-American cuisine. Think of it as a simplified, deconstructed chicken parmesan, offering all the delicious flavors without the fuss of breading and frying. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

What makes this Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake so irresistible? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly easy to make. We’re talking minimal prep time and maximum flavor payoff. But beyond the convenience, it’s the taste and texture that truly win people over. The tangy tomato sauce perfectly complements the savory chicken, while the melted mozzarella adds a creamy, cheesy goodness that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re feeding a family of four or hosting a casual get-together, this bake is guaranteed to be a hit. So, let’s get cooking and create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
Mozzarella Cheese: 8 ounces, shredded (freshly shredded is best!)
Marinara Sauce: 2 cups, your favorite brand or homemade
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Fresh Basil: Optional, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken:

First, let’s get our chicken ready. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important so the oven is ready when we are!
Now, take each chicken breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap. You can use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly. Be careful not to pound it too thin, or it will dry out.
In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is our dry rub that will give the chicken a ton of flavor.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is well coated. Don’t be shy with the seasoning it’s what makes the chicken taste amazing!

Searing the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cast iron skillets work great for this, but any oven-safe skillet will do.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s nicely browned. You’re not trying to cook the chicken all the way through at this point, just get a good sear on it. The searing adds a lot of flavor and helps to keep the chicken moist.
Remove the skillet from the heat.

Assembling the Bake:

Now comes the fun part assembling our cheesy masterpiece! Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the skillet, covering the seared chicken.
Next, generously top each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella cheese. Don’t skimp on the cheese the more, the merrier!
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the mozzarella cheese. This adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
Finally, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese. Make sure everything is nicely covered in sauce and cheese.

Baking the Chicken:

Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
If the cheese isn’t as browned as you’d like, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch it closely to prevent burning!
Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents you from burning your mouth.

Serving Suggestions:

Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
Serve the Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake with your favorite sides. Some great options include:
- Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)
- Garlic bread
- Steamed vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or green beans)
- A simple salad
This dish is also delicious served over mashed potatoes or rice.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Tips and Variations:

Use different cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious.
Add vegetables: Sauté some sliced mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers and add them to the skillet before baking.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce.
Use chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They will take a little longer to cook.
Make it ahead: You can assemble the bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.
Use a store-bought rotisserie chicken: For a super quick and easy meal, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Shred the chicken and add it to the skillet with the marinara sauce and cheese.
Add a layer of pesto: Spread a thin layer of pesto over the chicken before adding the marinara sauce and cheese. This adds a delicious herby flavor.
Make it a casserole: Instead of using an oven-safe skillet, you can assemble the bake in a casserole dish.
Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
Add a touch of cream: Drizzle a little heavy cream over the chicken before baking for an extra creamy and decadent dish.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake!

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a weeknight dinner champion, a comfort food hug, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one delicious dish. I truly believe you’ll find yourself making this again and again. The combination of juicy, tender chicken, the tangy tomato sauce, and that blanket of melted, bubbly mozzarella is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy, and honestly, what more could you ask for? But beyond the sheer deliciousness, what makes this recipe a must-try is its incredible versatility and ease. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable to your own tastes and what you have on hand. Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving this Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta spaghetti, penne, or even rotini work beautifully. The sauce clings to the pasta, creating a complete and satisfying meal. Alternatively, you could serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up all that flavorful sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A crusty loaf of bread is also a must for soaking up every last drop of that cheesy, tomatoey goodness! And speaking of versatility, don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! Want to add some extra veggies? Sliced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms would be fantastic additions. Feel free to sauté them alongside the chicken before baking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy marinara. You could even swap out the mozzarella for provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. If you’re watching your carbs, consider serving the chicken bake over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Another great variation is to add a layer of pesto under the mozzarella cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes also make a wonderful addition, adding a touch of sweetness and tanginess. And for those who love a little heat, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a drizzle of hot sauce after baking will take this dish to the next level. I’m confident that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. The beauty of this Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake lies in its ability to bring people together around a table filled with delicious food. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of this incredible dish. I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please, try this recipe and don’t hesitate to share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what sides you served it with, and most importantly, how much you enjoyed it! I’m always eager to learn from your culinary adventures and see how you make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!