Are you ready for a cozy and delicious dinner? I’m excited to share my favorite Baked Chicken Marinara recipe with you! it’s simple, comforting, and the perfect way to please your family or friends. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Cook Time: 35

Prep Time: 5

yields: 4

Calories: 614

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Baked Chicken Marinara

To make this Baked Chicken Marinara, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that blend seamlessly to create a mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 skinless,boneless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each)
2 teaspoons kosher salt (for that perfect seasoning)
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (a mix of herbs like oregano and basil)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-searing the chicken)
1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (I love using Rao’s® for its rich flavor)
8 ounces low-moisture,part-skim mozzarella cheese,shredded (that’s about 2 cups,and it melts beautifully!)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves,torn (for a fresh finish)
Cooked pasta (optional,but makes for a splendid side!)

These ingredients create a warm and comforting dish that can easily serve four peopel. The combination of tender chicken drenched in marinara and topped with gooey mozzarella is something I look forward to at the dinner table. Don’t hesitate to get creative; you can add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or even fresh spinach for added nutrition.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Baked Chicken Marinara

Ready to whip up this hearty Baked Chicken Marinara? Follow these easy steps for a delicious meal:

preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the racks in the upper and lower third sections for optimal cooking.

Season the chicken breasts: sprinkle both sides of the chicken evenly with kosher salt and dried Italian seasoning.

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.

Add the marinara sauce: pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is covered.Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Cover with aluminum foil and place the skillet in the lower third of the preheated oven.Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken’s internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

Broil for a finish: Carefully remove the foil and set your oven to broil.Move the skillet to the upper third rack and broil for about 2 minutes or until the cheese gets a nice golden color.

Garnish with fresh basil and serve with your choice of cooked pasta for a complete meal!

That’s it! A delightful dish ready to be enjoyed. The process is just as satisfying as the result, so I hope you relish every moment in the kitchen.

Serving and Storage Facts for Baked Chicken Marinara

After you’ve prepared this delicious Baked Chicken Marinara, it’s time to serve and enjoy! This dish is perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, serving about four people. I like to pair it with a side of cooked pasta—it soaks up the marinara sauce beautifully. You might also consider a fresh garden salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

If you have leftovers (which is rare but can happen!),they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to consume your leftover chicken marinara within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and safety. When it’s time to reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot. Just be careful not to overheat it, as this can make the chicken tough.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Transfer the cooled chicken marinara to a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as mentioned above. This makes for a swift meal option on busy days!

Helpful Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Baked Chicken Marinara

Here are some helpful tips and troubleshooting advice to ensure your Baked Chicken Marinara turns out perfectly:

chicken Breasts: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking.

Marinara sauce: Feel free to use homemade marinara if you have a favorite recipe. Just remember to use a sauce that you enjoy, as it really impacts the overall flavor of the dish.

Cheese Alternatives: If you want to reduce fat without sacrificing taste, you can use low-fat cheese or even non-dairy cheese alternatives.

Bubbling Sauce: If the sauce isn’t bubbling as expected, make sure your oven is fully preheated. Cooking times may vary based on oven performance, so keep an eye on it during the final broil.

Browning the cheese: If the cheese isn’t browning nicely under the broiler, you can switch to a higher rack and keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Add-Ins: Consider incorporating vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the marinara for added nutrients and flavor.

With these tips in mind, you should be ready to successfully create a delightful Baked Chicken Marinara that’s both satisfying and delicious! Enjoy your cooking adventure!