Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

A quick, crowd-pleasing chicken dinner that delivers all the cheesy, saucy comfort of Chicken Parmesan without the breading or extra fuss. This Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake combines tender seared chicken breasts with marinara sauce, parmesan, and melty mozzarella for an irresistible one-pan meal that’s ready in about 35 minutes. Perfect for weeknights, it’s simple to make, uses pantry staples, and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

This cheesy chicken bake is everything you want in a weeknight meal—easy, fast, and full of flavor. You only need a few ingredients, and it’s ready in about 35 minutes. The golden, bubbly cheese paired with juicy chicken and rich marinara makes it a hit with both kids and adults. It’s also naturally low-carb and gluten-free, so it fits many diets. You can serve it as a hearty dinner, make it for guests, or prep it ahead for busy nights. It has all the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan, but without the breading or deep-frying. You’ll love how satisfying and mess-free this version is.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a few everyday ingredients for this Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts form the base—they cook quickly and stay juicy when seared. Olive oil helps brown the chicken beautifully while keeping it tender. Garlic powder adds quick flavor without peeling or chopping. Salt and pepper keep the seasoning simple and balanced. Marinara sauce brings that familiar Italian-style richness, while parmesan gives a nutty depth. Finally, mozzarella melts into a creamy, stretchy topping that makes every bite irresistible. Freshly grated cheese always melts smoother and tastes better, so use that if possible.

How to Make Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

Prep and Season

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts, then season both sides evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple mix adds flavor without overpowering the sauce and cheese.

Sear the Chicken

Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken and sear each side for about 5 minutes until golden. Don’t move the chicken too soon—allow it to naturally release from the pan before flipping. Then, transfer it to a greased baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well-coated. Then, sprinkle parmesan cheese first for that sharp, salty layer, followed by a generous handful of shredded mozzarella.

Bake and Broil

Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the chicken reaches 165°F internally. If you skipped searing, bake closer to 30 minutes. For a golden, bubbly finish, broil briefly—just 1 to 2 minutes—watching closely so it doesn’t burn.

Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to settle so the meat stays moist and flavorful. With about 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a complete dinner that serves four.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Always preheat your pan before searing—it helps prevent the chicken from sticking. Use freshly grated cheeses for a smoother melt and richer flavor. If the chicken sticks while cooking, wait another minute or two until it releases naturally. For even cooking, choose chicken breasts of similar size or pound them to equal thickness. Also, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to keep it safe and juicy. If your chicken is thicker, add 5 more minutes of bake time. Letting the dish rest before slicing makes a big difference in tenderness.

Substitutions and Variations

You can switch things up easily. Try provolone, cheddar, or a Mexican blend instead of mozzarella for a new flavor twist. Use homemade or store-bought marinara sauce—whatever you prefer. If you want to skip searing, go ahead and bake the seasoned raw chicken for 30 minutes or until fully cooked. To keep it extra healthy and low-carb, pair it with roasted vegetables instead of pasta. This Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is gluten-free and easy to adapt for most diets.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, use the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. If the cheese starts to dry, cover with a lid or a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Freezing isn’t recommended since melted cheese tends to change texture after thawing.

Serving Ideas

Serve your Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake with spaghetti or penne for a cozy, family-style meal. Add garlic bread for dipping into the extra sauce, or balance it with a crisp green salad. For a low-carb twist, pair it with zucchini noodles, steamed broccoli, or roasted cauliflower. It’s a versatile dinner that works beautifully with any side.

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

• creamy ranch chicken one-pan dinner
• baked chicken thighs in a rich, creamy sauce
• crispy baked chicken taco fingers
• comforting chicken and vegetable soup
• easy chicken taco casserole for family dinners
• honey garlic chicken for easy weeknight meals

FAQ

Conclusion

This Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake is the kind of comforting, no-fuss dinner you’ll come back to again and again. It’s quick, flavorful, and loved by everyone at the table. Try it soon and enjoy the cozy, cheesy goodness with your favorite sides. Don’t forget to share your creation on Pinterest for more meal inspiration.