Cheesy Marinara Chicken Bake – Comforting & Gooey

Cheesy Marinara Chicken Bake is a comforting baked dish with tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, it’s a cheesy, flavorful crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy baked chicken with rich marinara sauce
• Golden, gooey cheese topping
• Easy to assemble and bake
• Family-friendly and satisfying
• Perfect served with pasta or garlic bread

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
4. Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal) and cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use jarred or homemade marinara sauce
• Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers under the cheese
• Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for variation
• Serve over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles
• Make ahead by assembling and refrigerating, then bake before serving

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze baked chicken up to 1 month; thaw before reheating
• Reheating: Oven or microwave until heated through; avoid overcooking
• Keep sauce covered to maintain moisture
• Best served immediately for gooey cheese topping

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with spaghetti or garlic bread
• Side salad or roasted vegetables
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes
• Pairs well with a sparkling water
• Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, adjust cooking time slightly.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, assemble in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Can I use low-fat cheese?

Yes, but texture and melting may vary.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini work well.

Ready to Make It?

Cheesy Marinara Chicken Bake is gooey, cheesy, and comforting. Juicy chicken, rich marinara, and melted cheese make this dish a perfect weeknight dinner or family meal.

You Might Also Like

• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps – Savory chicken with gooey cheese and garlic.
• Crispy Chicken Schnitzel – Golden, crunchy chicken with tender inside.
• Chicken Wellington – Elegant baked chicken with puff pastry.
• Buffalo Chicken Wraps – Spicy, creamy chicken wrapped in tortillas.

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