If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, look no further than Mozzarella Chicken. This dish features tender chicken breasts topped with a rich marinara sauce and bubbling mozzarella cheese, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Plus, it pairs beautifully with pasta for a complete meal that feels special, even on a busy night. So let’s dive into the delicious world of Mozzarella Chicken!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Mozzarella Chicken is a dish that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, easy, and utterly delightful. The combination of tender chicken, zesty marinara, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also calls for simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy date night, this dish is bound to impress.

What You’ll Gather

To whip up your Mozzarella Chicken, here’s what you’ll need:

1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
1 teaspoon dried parsley leaves
1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
1 pinch salt
1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 skinless boneless chicken breasts, halved to make 4 fillets
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1-2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (adjust to your tastes)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup pasta water
2-3 cups pasta of choice, cooked

Equipment & Tools

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:

Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and sauce.
Cutting board: To prepare the chicken fillets.
Knife: For slicing and dicing.
Measuring spoons: To measure out spices and ingredients accurately.
Spatula: For flipping the chicken and mixing the sauce.
Serving plates: To present your delicious Mozzarella Chicken.

Step-by-Step: Mozzarella Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken fillets. In a small bowl, mix together the dried basil, dried parsley, ground oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture onto both sides of the chicken fillets, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken fillets to the skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir in the Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the seared chicken fillets to the skillet, spooning the marinara sauce over each piece. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top of the chicken, covering it generously.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on low heat, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly. If you want a golden crust on the cheese, you can place the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve with Pasta

While the chicken is finishing up, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Once the chicken is ready, serve it warm over the cooked pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Enjoy your wonderful Mozzarella Chicken!

Seasonal Spins

Mix things up with these seasonal variations of Mozzarella Chicken:

Spring: Add fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes to the marinara for a burst of color and flavor.
Summer: Toss in some zucchini or bell peppers for a vibrant, veggie-packed dish.
Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash and sage for a cozy autumn twist.
Winter: Try adding kale and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a warming kick.

Errors to Dodge

To ensure your Mozzarella Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these common mistakes in mind:

Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to monitor the cooking time to keep the chicken juicy.
Using too much seasoning: Adjust the Italian seasoning to your taste; a little goes a long way.
Skipping the cheese melting step: Don’t rush this step! Allow the cheese to melt for that gooey, delicious texture.
Not reserving pasta water: This is key to achieving a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because this dish is so good!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Cooling: Allow the Mozzarella Chicken to cool to room temperature before storing.
Storing: Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Rewarming: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Common Qs About Mozzarella Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and can add extra juiciness and flavor.

What can I serve with Mozzarella Chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze Mozzarella Chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.

How do I make this dish healthier?

To make a lighter version, you can use skinless chicken breasts, reduce the amount of cheese, or serve it over zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Keep Cooking

If you loved Mozzarella Chicken, try these other delightful recipes:

Wrap-Up

In just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering Mozzarella Chicken dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful marinara, and melty cheese is a guaranteed hit that everyone will enjoy. Plus, with the flexibility to customize it to your taste or the season, you can keep this recipe fresh and exciting. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Mozzarella Chicken!