Mozzarella Chicken Bake (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
1/2 cup grated parmesan, the fresh kind
02 -
2 tbsp olive oil
03 -
4 hefty, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts
04 -
A pinch or two of salt and pepper, add to your liking
05 -
1 1/2 cups of marinara sauce
06 -
1 tsp garlic powder
07 -
1 full cup of shredded mozzarella
# Instructions:
01 -
Turn on your oven to 375°F and make sure the rack is centered.
02 -
Grab the chicken and sprinkle the garlic powder over both sides, along with a good amount of salt and pepper.
03 -
Heat some olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, cook the chicken for about five minutes on each side until they get a nice golden crust. Then shift the chicken into a 9x13 baking dish that’s been greased up.
04 -
Take your marinara sauce and pour it all over the chicken, making sure to cover and spread it evenly.
05 -
First sprinkle parmesan over the chicken, then follow it with an even layer of mozzarella.
06 -
Pop the baking dish in the oven without covering it. Let it cook for about 20 minutes (or closer to 15 if the chicken pieces are smaller). Switch to broil at the end and broil for a couple of minutes until the cheese looks bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it, though!
07 -
After taking it out of the oven, let the chicken sit for about five minutes to keep it juicy. Make sure the thickest part has an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
If you’re short on time, skip browning the chicken. Just season it and put it straight into the dish. Bake for at least 30 minutes or until the center hits 165°F.
02 -
Chicken size matters for cooking time! A meat thermometer is your best bet.
03 -
If you’ve got a big pan that can go in the oven, you can cook the whole thing there without transferring to a baking dish.