If you're craving a dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the comforting goodness of melted cheese, look no further than this mouthwatering Mozzarella Chicken in Tomato Sauce! This delightful recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a touch of elegance to your dinner table. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you'll be able to whip up a meal that impresses family and friends alike. Get ready to indulge in tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella—it's a dish that promises to be a hit at any gathering!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a nice color to the chicken.
- Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Reduce the heat to medium and add the marinara sauce to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This will add extra flavor to your sauce.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the marinara sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of each chicken breast to ensure they are well-coated.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken breasts, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a delicious cheesy topping as it bakes.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
- Serve the mozzarella chicken hot, spooning extra marinara sauce over the top if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can season the chicken and prepare the marinara sauce a few hours in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! It locks in the juices and adds a beautiful golden crust that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Adding a blend of provolone or fontina can elevate the flavor profile even more.
- Add Vegetables: For a more wholesome meal, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the marinara sauce before returning the chicken to the skillet.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don’t forget the fresh basil! Not only does it add a beautiful touch, but it also enhances the dish's aroma and flavor.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Mozzarella Chicken with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad to complete the meal and impress your guests!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 140mg
