- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, just until golden brown. (The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage—it will finish in the oven.)
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Assemble the Bake
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken, followed by the grated Parmesan.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- If you want extra browning on the cheese, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely to avoid burning).
6. Garnish & Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve hot with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Tips for Success
- Use Thin Chicken Breasts: Pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness for faster, more even cooking.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Switch Up the Cheese: Use provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different twist.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the bake ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for fresh, warm results.
- Double the Recipe: This dish reheats well, so make extra for leftovers or freeze portions for later.
Why This Recipe Works
This Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake combines juicy, flavorful chicken with a rich, herby tomato sauce and layers of gooey, melted cheese. The searing step locks in moisture, while the oven-baked finish ensures the chicken is tender and the cheese is perfectly melty. Whether served over pasta or alongside roasted veggies, this dish is a comforting, satisfying meal that’s hard to resist.
Conclusion: A Dish That’s Cheesy, Saucy, and Satisfying
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something indulgent yet wholesome, this Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is sure to hit the spot. Its bold flavors, creamy textures, and customizable options make it a standout dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Plus, its one-pan simplicity means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on this cheesy chicken bake might just inspire others to try it too! 🧀✨