Chicken Marinara
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Chicken Marinara. Juicy, tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, homemade marinara sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, and finished with fresh basil ribbons—this dish is a celebration of flavors that evokes the heart of Italian cooking. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Chicken Marinara is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delightful dish.
Why It Works Every Time
The secret to a successful Chicken Marinara lies in the balance of flavors and textures. By using fresh ingredients like garlic, whole peeled tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, you create a sauce that bursts with flavor. The chicken, seasoned simply with Italian herbs, provides a perfect canvas for the vibrant marinara. Topping it with freshly shredded mozzarella adds creaminess and a delightful stretch. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
What You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (or more to taste)
- Basil ribbons (to garnish)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 28 ounces whole peeled tomatoes (1 large can)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 sprigs fresh basil
Equipment & Tools
- Skillet – For searing the chicken and simmering the sauce.
- Wooden Spoon – For stirring the sauce and ensuring even cooking.
- Sharp Knife – For slicing the chicken and mincing the garlic.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Serving Dish – To present your Chicken Marinara beautifully.
Chicken Marinara: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for the best flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Marinara Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes, crushing them with your hands as you add them to the skillet. Stir in the dried oregano and kosher salt. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the marinara sauce. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish
Sprinkle the freshly shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh basil ribbons before serving. Your Chicken Marinara is now ready to be enjoyed!
Flavor-Forward Alternatives
- Add heat: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Cheese variations: Try using provolone or parmesan cheese for a different twist.
- Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavors.
Cook’s Commentary
The beauty of Chicken Marinara is its versatility. Not only is it a satisfying main dish, but it also pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread for dipping. This recipe encourages creativity, so feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. For instance, if you’re in the mood for a fusion dish, you can serve this over Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Orecchiette for a delightful twist.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove until heated through. You can also freeze Chicken Marinara for future meals—just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Chicken Marinara Q&A
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and can add extra flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have whole peeled tomatoes?
You can substitute with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes. The texture will be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just combine them before serving, and heat them through. This can actually enhance the flavors since they have more time to meld together.
What should I serve with Chicken Marinara?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
What to Make After This
- One Pot Creamy Tomato Chicken Cavatappi – A comforting, creamy pasta dish.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Orecchiette – An elegant pasta option for your next dinner.
Ready, Set, Cook
With its hearty flavors and simple preparation, Chicken Marinara is bound to become a favorite in your home. Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and savor the deliciousness of this Italian classic. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or served at a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to delight. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills, and don’t forget to share your experience! Enjoy your cooking adventure and revel in the joy that Chicken Marinara brings to your table.
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Chicken Marinara
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for the best flavor.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes, crushing them with your hands as you add them to the skillet. Stir in the dried oregano and kosher salt. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the marinara sauce. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Sprinkle the freshly shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh basil ribbons before serving. Your Chicken Marinara is now ready to be enjoyed!
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for breasts for extra flavor.
