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This Chicken Marinara is a quick, one-pan recipe that combines juicy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella. It’s an easy weeknight meal that delivers classic Italian flavors with minimal effort!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinara:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1️⃣ Sear the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown (it will finish cooking in the sauce).
  4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

🔥 Pro Tip: For extra crispy edges, lightly dredge the chicken in flour before searing!

2️⃣ Make the Marinara Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, sauté the onion for 2 minutes until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds.
  3. Pour in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.

🔥 Pro Tip: Simmering the sauce for 10-15 minutes deepens the flavor—don’t rush it!

3️⃣ Simmer the Chicken in Sauce

  1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
  2. Cover and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

🔥 Pro Tip: Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar enhances the sauce’s depth!

4️⃣ Add the Cheese & Bake (or Cover & Melt)

  1. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
  2. Cover with a lid and cook for 2-3 more minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
  3. Alternatively, transfer the skillet to a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes until bubbly and golden.

🔥 Pro Tip: For a crispy cheese topping, broil for the last 2 minutes!

5️⃣ Serve & Garnish

  1. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
  2. Pair with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for an unforgettable meal.

🔥 Pro Tip: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving for a luxurious finish!

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spaceofrecipes.com/chicken-marinara/