Mozzarella Chicken is one of those dishes that combines simplicity and flavor in a way that makes it both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a winner. With only a few basic ingredients like chicken breasts, mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into how to prepare Mozzarella Chicken, including the steps to perfect the seasoning, cooking, and garnishing. We’ll also provide some tips for variations, side dish ideas, and additional recipes you might love. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Mozzarella Chicken
Before you begin preparing Mozzarella Chicken, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the recipe:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are the perfect base for this dish because they cook quickly and are mild in flavor, allowing the mozzarella and marinara to shine.
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1 teaspoon salt: This helps to season the chicken and bring out its natural flavors.
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½ teaspoon pepper: Pepper adds just the right amount of spice to balance out the dish.
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1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle, savory flavor to the chicken.
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning brings a medley of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil is ideal for cooking the chicken because it gives the chicken a nice golden crust while keeping it juicy on the inside.
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1 cup marinara sauce: The marinara sauce is the key component to this dish, providing the tangy tomato base that complements the chicken perfectly.
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The mozzarella is the star of this dish. When melted, it forms a creamy, gooey layer on top of the chicken, adding both flavor and texture.
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Fresh basil (optional, for garnish): Fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor that completes the dish. It’s optional, but highly recommended for a fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mozzarella Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. It’s important to season both sides of the chicken evenly to ensure each bite is flavorful. The garlic powder will give it a savory, aromatic base, while the Italian seasoning brings in those warm, herby notes that make the dish feel like an Italian classic.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know the chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or when it’s no longer pink in the center. The olive oil helps the chicken develop a nice, crisp exterior while keeping it juicy inside.
It’s crucial not to overcrowd the pan, so if you’re making more than two chicken breasts, consider cooking them in batches. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 3: Add the Marinara Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese
Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. The marinara adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the mozzarella cheese.
Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken. The cheese will melt into the marinara, creating a creamy and flavorful topping. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. The sauce should be hot, and the cheese should be gooey and melty.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
To finish, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the Mozzarella Chicken with fresh basil leaves. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely fresh, and aromatic note that brightens the dish. Basil pairs beautifully with the Italian flavors in the marinara and mozzarella.
Serve the Mozzarella Chicken immediately, either as a main course or with your favorite side dishes. It’s best enjoyed while the cheese is still melted and the chicken is warm and juicy.
Variations and Customizations for Mozzarella Chicken
While Mozzarella Chicken is delicious as written, there are a few ways you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to take your Mozzarella Chicken to the next level:
1. Add Some Veggies
If you want to incorporate more vegetables into your meal, try adding some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet before adding the marinara sauce and cheese. This will add extra flavor and make the dish even more nutritious.
2. Use Different Types of Cheese
Mozzarella is the classic choice for this recipe, but if you’re a cheese lover, you can try swapping it for a combination of other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or parmesan. These cheeses will add depth and complexity to the dish.
3. Spicy Variation
For those who like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or seasoning the chicken with chili powder before cooking. This will give your Mozzarella Chicken a spicy kick that balances perfectly with the richness of the cheese.
4. Paleo or Low-Carb Version
If you’re following a paleo or low-carb diet, you can serve your Mozzarella Chicken with a side of zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or bread. This keeps the dish low in carbs while still delivering all the delicious flavors.
5. Make it a Chicken Parmesan
For a more traditional Chicken Parmesan, after adding the marinara sauce and cheese, bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly. You can also bread the chicken before cooking it to get a crispy crust similar to the classic Chicken Parmesan.
What to Serve with Mozzarella Chicken
Mozzarella Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of our favorite options to complete your meal:
1. Garlic Bread
A side of warm, crispy garlic bread is the perfect complement to Mozzarella Chicken. The garlicky, buttery bread is perfect for dipping in the marinara sauce.
2. Pasta
A simple pasta dish, like spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, is a classic pairing for Mozzarella Chicken. The pasta will soak up the marinara sauce, making every bite more flavorful.
3. Roasted Vegetables
For a healthier side, consider serving your Mozzarella Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables. Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are all great options.
4. Cauliflower Rice or Zoodles
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, serve your Mozzarella Chicken with cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles). These alternatives mimic the texture of rice or pasta while keeping the dish lighter.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you love Mozzarella Chicken, here are some other recipes that you might enjoy, featuring similar ingredients and flavors:
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Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bites with Buttered Rotini: This dish features tender chicken bites in a creamy garlic sauce, paired with buttery rotini for a comforting meal.
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A crispy, golden crust of parmesan and breadcrumbs gives this chicken a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with a side of marinara sauce.
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Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta: This creamy chicken pasta is a fan favorite, with rich, flavorful sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, making it an ideal pairing for a romantic meal.
FAQs About Mozzarella Chicken
1. Why is it called Chicken Parm if it’s made with Mozzarella?
The dish is called “Chicken Parm” or “Chicken Parmesan” because it originated in Italy, and “parm” refers to Parmesan cheese, which is typically used in the traditional recipe. While mozzarella is often the cheese that gets melted on top, Parmesan is used to give the chicken a crunchy, flavorful crust when breaded. Over time, mozzarella has become the more popular cheese for topping, but the name “Chicken Parm” has stuck, referring to the Parmesan influence in the original recipe.
2. What cheese goes well with chicken?
Several cheeses pair wonderfully with chicken, depending on the flavor profile you’re aiming for. Mozzarella is a classic choice for dishes like Mozzarella Chicken because of its mild flavor and meltability. Other cheeses that pair well with chicken include:
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Cheddar: Offers a sharp contrast to the mildness of chicken.
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Provolone: A mild, slightly smoky cheese that melts beautifully.
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Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor, often used in crusts or sprinkled on top.
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Fontina: A semi-soft cheese that has a creamy texture and a rich flavor, perfect for stuffing or melting.
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Goat cheese: Adds a tangy and creamy element, often used in more adventurous chicken dishes.
3. Can you stuff chicken with mozzarella?
Yes! Stuffing chicken with mozzarella is a delicious option. Whether you’re preparing a stuffed chicken breast or rolling chicken around mozzarella, it makes for a tasty, gooey filling. Mozzarella melts beautifully and complements the chicken’s mild flavor. You can pair it with other ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms for added flavor. Just make sure to secure the chicken properly with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the cheese inside while cooking.
4. Is low-moisture mozzarella better for Chicken Parm?
Yes, low-moisture mozzarella is often preferred for Chicken Parmesan, especially when baking or frying. It has less water content, which helps it melt evenly and create a nice, bubbly layer of cheese without becoming too watery or soggy. High-moisture mozzarella tends to release more liquid, which can make the dish too wet and affect the texture. Low-moisture mozzarella provides the perfect balance, offering a smooth, creamy melt while maintaining structure and flavor.
Final Thoughts on Mozzarella Chicken
Mozzarella Chicken is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella is undeniably delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out today and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
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Mozzarella Chicken: Quick & Easy Recipe for Busy Nights
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Mozzarella Chicken is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This simple recipe is full of flavor and takes just minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a crowd-pleaser, Mozzarella Chicken hits the spot!
Ingredients
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 cup marinara sauce
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
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Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
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Add Sauce & Cheese: Pour marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
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Garnish & Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
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Feel free to add your favorite herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to customize the flavor.
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For a creamy twist, you can add a dollop of ricotta or cream cheese to the sauce before adding the mozzarella.
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For a gluten-free version, serve the Mozzarella Chicken with gluten-free pasta or a side of roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet-cooked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Mozzarella Chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, cheesy chicken, Italian chicken recipe, chicken with marinara, skillet chicken, mozzarella recipes