Chicken Mozzarella Bake
This bake is also incredibly versatile. You can add your favorite herbs — basil and oregano are classics — or throw in some garlic and onion for extra depth. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or even simple pasta.
Equipment
- Baking dish (9x13-inch)
- Skillet or pan (optional)
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- Tongs or Spatula
- Aluminum Foil
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bake
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 14.5 oz can chopped tomatoes (drained slightly)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning into the chicken on both sides for full flavor coverage.
- Pro Tip: If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally or gently pound them to about 1-inch thickness for more even baking.
Step 2: (Optional) Sear the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tiny drizzle of olive oil.
- Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- You're not cooking it all the way—just adding flavor and color.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed so the chicken browns instead of steaming.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Pour the chopped tomatoes evenly over the chicken. You can spoon some under the chicken too for extra juiciness.
- Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by Parmesan.
- Pro Tip: Drain your chopped tomatoes just slightly. You want some juice to keep things saucy, but not so much that it becomes watery.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- If the cheese starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil in the last 10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving—this helps the juices settle and flavors meld.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and herby freshness.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides—think pasta, rice, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad.
- Pro Tip: Leftovers taste amazing the next day! Store in an airtight container and reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Notes
Estimated Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350–400 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 18–20g
- Saturated Fat: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~6–8g
- Fiber: 1–2g
- Sugar: ~3g
- Sodium: ~600–700mg
- Calcium: ~20% of daily recommended intake