Easy Baked Chicken Breast
Juicy baked chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese make for a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for weeknights. Simple to prepare and versatile, it pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables, appealing to families and cheese lovers seeking a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, melt a little butter over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Pour spaghetti sauce over the chicken breasts.
- Top each chicken breast with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs or lemon juice for an hour before cooking. If you don't have mozzarella, try using provolone or cheddar cheese as a substitute. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the spaghetti sauce for extra nutrition and flavor. This recipe works well with Italian recipes that feature pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked chicken breasts over a bed of angel hair pasta or alongside garlic bread for a comforting meal. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. This chicken dish also complements Italian Wedding Soup for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the chicken in a baking dish covered with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the oven helps keep the chicken moist and the cheese bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Baked Chicken Breast contains roughly 19 calories, with 1g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 496mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking. If you're short on time, you can also use the microwave's defrost setting, but be sure to cook them immediately after thawing.
What can I serve with baked chicken breasts?
Baked chicken breasts pair beautifully with various sides, such as roasted vegetables, a light salad, or pasta. For a richer experience, try serving it with creamy Light Alfredo Sauce or alongside Italian Chicken Stew for a heartier meal.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork, and the chicken should no longer be pink inside.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).