Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a comforting, oven-baked dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, rich tomato sauce, and loads of gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort—perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual family meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to put together. With just a handful of ingredients and one baking dish, I can make a meal that feels homemade and cozy without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken stays moist under the cheesy, golden topping, and the tomato base adds just the right tang to balance everything out.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
Salt and pepper
-
Garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
-
Marinara or pasta sauce
-
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
-
Parmesan cheese (grated, for extra flavor)
-
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Directions
-
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
I season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder.
-
I place the chicken in a baking dish and pour marinara sauce over each piece.
-
I top everything generously with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
-
I bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
If I want the top extra golden, I broil it for 2–3 minutes at the end.
-
I let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped basil or parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I add sliced mushrooms or spinach under the sauce for extra veggies. If I’m out of mozzarella, I use provolone or a cheese blend. I’ve also made this dish with boneless thighs for a juicier texture. And when I want a kick, I sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the oven at 350°F until it’s warmed through, or microwave it in short bursts. If the cheese starts to dry out, I cover it with foil or add a splash of water before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
I always thaw the chicken completely before baking to make sure it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
I like using a simple, good-quality store-bought marinara, or sometimes I make my own if I have time. Either way, a sauce with garlic and herbs works best for flavor.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes, I often assemble the dish a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready, I just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Is this dish low carb?
Yes, it can be. Since it’s just chicken, sauce, and cheese, it’s naturally low in carbs—especially if I skip serving it with pasta or bread.
What should I serve with it?
I like serving it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. It also pairs well with pasta or rice if I want something heartier.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is one of my go-to recipes when I want something easy, warm, and filling. It’s flavorful, flexible, and always a crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep and maximum comfort, it’s a dish I keep coming back to—especially on busy nights when I want something satisfying without too much fuss.
