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Mozzarella Chicken Bake

Mozzarella Chicken Bake
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Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a comforting, cheesy, and savory dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella cheese and seasoned with herbs and spices. Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers a flavorful and family-friendly meal that pairs well with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 to 1 ½ cups fresh or shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry, then drizzle them with olive oil. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning to build a robust flavor base.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly brown the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in moisture and creates a flavorful crust that helps keep the chicken tender during baking.
  3. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Cover each breast with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, ensuring a gooey and creamy melt.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the mozzarella is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a bright, aromatic finish before serving.

Notes

  • Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform and quicker cooking.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for the creamiest melt and best texture.
  • Don’t skip the searing step as it seals in the juices and adds flavor depth.
  • Let cooked chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to retain juices and tenderness.
  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid drying out the chicken.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free and adaptable for various dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mozzarella Chicken Bake, cheesy chicken, easy dinner, gluten free chicken recipe, quick chicken bake, family-friendly dinner

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/mozzarella-chicken-bake/