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Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe | Gooey & Delicious

I recently made this Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe and it turned out even better than I hoped. The combination of tender chicken, rich marinara, and stretchy, melty cheese creates the kind of comfort meal that feels like a warm hug. As soon as it came out of the oven, bubbling and golden, I couldn’t resist sneaking a bite.

It’s simple, reliable, and full of flavor, and I’m excited to share exactly how I made it. You can also enjoy similar indulgent flavors in a Tartiflette Savoyarde with Reblochon Cheese for a cheesy twist.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need, along with tips for getting the best results:

4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts — lean and tender, perfect for baking evenly.
2 tablespoons olive oil — helps sear the chicken and lock in juices.
½ teaspoon garlic powder — adds a subtle savory layer without overpowering.
Salt and pepper, to taste — essential for balancing flavors.
1.5 cups marinara sauce — adds moisture, acidity, and a rich tomato flavor.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese — fresh-grated melts better and gives a deeper, sharper taste.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese — the star of the show; freshly shredded melts more smoothly.

Note: Makes approximately 4 servings. You could pair this with a sweet treat like Carrot Cake Banana Bread Recipe for dessert.

Variations

A few easy swaps can make this dish fit different diets or flavor preferences:

Use different cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a more intense flavor.
Swap in dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives for a lactose-free version.
Stir fresh herbs (basil, parsley, oregano) into the marinara for extra aroma.
Add vegetables like fresh spinach, mushrooms, or sliced bell peppers under the chicken.
Use part-skim mozzarella if you prefer a slightly lighter dish without losing creaminess.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment You Need

Skillet — for searing the chicken and adding flavor.
9×13-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet — to bake the chicken with sauce and cheese.
Meat thermometer — helps ensure the chicken reaches a safe temperature without overcooking.
Grater or microplane — for fresh Parmesan, which melts more evenly than packaged cheese.

How to Make Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

Here’s a simple, step-by-step breakdown to help you make it perfectly.

Preheat and Season

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and setting the rack in the middle. Season both sides of each chicken breast with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to build a flavorful base.

Sear the Chicken

Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about five minutes per side until golden. This step locks in moisture and enhances the taste, then transfer the chicken to your baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour marinara evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan first, followed by a generous layer of mozzarella.

Bake and Broil

Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes (slightly less if using small chicken breasts). Once done, broil for a few minutes until the cheese turns bubbly and lightly golden. Let the dish rest for five minutes before serving.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are some things I learned while making this dish:

I lightly pound the chicken to an even thickness so it cooks uniformly.
If I skip searing on busy days, I simply increase the baking time slightly, and it still turns out tasty.
Grating Parmesan myself has made a huge difference in meltiness and flavor.
I always check the temperature to avoid overbaking — 165°F is my sweet spot for perfectly juicy chicken.

How to Serve Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

This dish looks beautiful with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top. I like pairing it with garlic bread, mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or pasta on the side. Spoon some extra marinara from the pan under each chicken breast — it adds color and makes the plate look like something from a restaurant.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: ~481
Protein: ~60g
Carbohydrates: ~6g
Fat: ~23g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing:
Let the chicken cool fully, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for 3–4 days.

Freezing:
You can freeze it, but the cheese may change texture slightly. Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Warm it slowly in a covered pan over low heat or microwave gently on medium heat to keep the chicken tender and the cheese soft.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s what makes this dish such a winner:

It’s incredibly easy: With minimal steps and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for weeknights.
It’s comforting: Melty cheese, juicy chicken, and marinara sauce blend into the ultimate cozy meal.
It’s customizable: Add veggies, change cheeses, use herbs — it adapts to your taste.
It’s quick: Everything comes together in under an hour without feeling rushed.
It reheats beautifully: Leftovers stay flavorful and satisfying.

Ben Carraoli