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Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Breast Recipe

This cheesy mozzarella chicken breast is juicy, tender, and topped with perfectly melted mozzarella cheese. Pan-seared until golden, then finished in the oven with a simple tomato garlic sauce and gooey mozzarella, this easy recipe is ready in just 35 minutes. It's a comforting dinner that's perfect with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: dinner, lounch
Cuisine: American, Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • ½ cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley optional, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are thick, pound them to an even thickness.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and coat both sides evenly with the seasoning mixture.
  5. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
  6. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, then cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Spoon the marinara sauce around and over the chicken breasts.
  8. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over each chicken breast, then top with the Parmesan cheese.
  9. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Freshly shredded mozzarella melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Use an oven-safe skillet to avoid transferring the chicken to another baking dish.
  • For extra flavor, add sliced tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serve with pasta, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp Caesar salad.