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High Protein Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Bake

Tender chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for an easy, high-protein dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1.5-2 lbs
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large skillet
  • Meat Thermometer
  • paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Optional but recommended: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden (it won't be cooked through yet).
  4. Place chicken breasts in prepared baking dish. Spread minced garlic evenly over each breast, followed by a layer of marinara sauce.
  5. Top each chicken breast generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if desired.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and cheese is melted and slightly golden.
  7. Optional: If cheese isn't browned enough, turn oven to broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in 350°F oven covered with foil for 12-15 minutes. Variations: Add fresh spinach under the cheese for extra nutrients. Swap marinara for pesto for different flavor profile. Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results. Mix cheeses by combining mozzarella with Parmesan or provolone. Freezing: Assemble dish before baking, wrap tightly, freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking as directed. Make-Ahead: Season chicken and assemble up to 4 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bring to room temperature 15 minutes before baking.