Description
Juicy chicken smothered in melted mozzarella and marinara. Skip the restaurant and make this cheesy bake that pulls like a dream and tastes even better.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
- 16 oz (450g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to even 1/2-inch thickness.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic to skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add marinara sauce, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Return chicken to skillet, nestling pieces into the sauce. Spoon sauce over chicken and sprinkle with half the parmesan.
- Layer mozzarella slices over chicken, slightly overlapping. Sprinkle remaining parmesan on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
- Optional: Broil for final 1-2 minutes for extra golden top.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.