Golden, bubbling mozzarella takes center stage in this mouthwatering chicken recipe. Each bite delivers juicy, well-seasoned chicken paired with rich, gooey cheese that stretches with every forkful.
The simplicity of the ingredients allows the bold, comforting flavors to shine without overwhelming the dish. A quick sear on the chicken locks in flavor before it bakes under a generous layer of mozzarella.
Herbs and spices add depth, while the melted cheese brings everything together in perfect harmony. Serve it with pasta, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of flavor. Weeknight dinners feel special with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe.
Kids love the cheesy goodness, and adults appreciate the satisfying, home-cooked taste. Bring warmth to the table with a dish that combines everyday ingredients in an unforgettable way. One pan, one protein, and one very happy dinner crew.
Chicken With Mozzarella Recipe
Chicken with mozzarella is a simple and delicious dish. It combines juicy chicken breasts, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. The flavor is rich but not heavy. This dish works well for lunch or dinner. You can serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Many home cooks enjoy this recipe because it needs only a few ingredients. And the steps are easy to follow. Even beginners can make it with great results. Let’s get started.
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving: 4 people
- Calorie: 360 per serving
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce and Topping:
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1½ cups tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Place the chicken in the pan. Cook each side for 4 to 5 minutes. The outside should be golden. The inside does not need to be fully cooked yet.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Pour tomato sauce over the chicken in the pan. Spread it evenly with a spoon. Let it simmer for 10 minutes with the lid on. This helps cook the chicken all the way through.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken piece. You can also add Parmesan if you like. Cover the pan again and let the cheese melt for 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Garnish with fresh basil if you have it. Serve hot with your favorite side dish.
Top Tips
Use Fresh Chicken
Fresh chicken cooks faster and stays juicy. Try not to use frozen chicken if you can avoid it.
Check for Doneness
Cut the thickest part of the chicken. It should be white with no pink inside. You can also use a thermometer. The inside should be 165°F (74°C).
Don’t Skip the Lid
Covering the pan helps the cheese melt better. It also keeps the chicken moist.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add red chili flakes to the tomato sauce. This gives a little heat for those who enjoy spicy food.
Creamy Style
Mix 2 tablespoons of heavy cream into the sauce. This gives a creamy, rich texture.
Add Veggies
Add cooked spinach or mushrooms to the sauce. This adds more flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 360 kcal
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Protein: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Fat: 20g
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Saturated Fat: 8g
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Sugar: 4g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sodium: 650mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes. Just make sure they are boneless and adjust the cooking time.
What kind of tomato sauce works best?
Use any tomato-based pasta sauce. Marinara or basil-flavored sauces work great.
Can I make this in the oven?
Yes. Sear the chicken first, then bake with sauce and cheese at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
How can I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
Conclusion
Chicken with mozzarella is an easy and tasty dish. It’s perfect for a quick dinner. With simple ingredients and fast steps, anyone can cook it. Try it tonight and enjoy a warm, cheesy meal with your loved ones.
