Description
This Italian Chicken Recipe features juicy, baked chicken breasts seasoned with classic Italian herbs and spices, topped with marinara sauce and a delicious blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting, flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare and pairs well with pasta or vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauces and Cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoning blend.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub each breast with olive oil, then evenly coat them with the seasoning blend to infuse flavor.
- Assemble for Baking: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece to cover thoroughly. Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in.
- Bake Covered: Bake the chicken covered for 20 minutes to allow it to cook through while staying moist.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each chicken breast. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Serve alongside pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh side salad to complete your meal.
- For a variation, add sliced tomatoes and fresh mozzarella before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts; adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure doneness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
