Chicken marinara is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this baked chicken marinara recipe will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dish step-by-step.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a list of ingredients for a straightforward baked chicken marinara:
– 12 boneless, skinless chicken tenders or breasts
– 32 ounces of marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2-3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
– Olive oil
– Italian seasoning (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spaghetti or your favorite pasta, for serving
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
You can also add extras like garlic, onions, or herbs to boost the flavor if you like.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Marinara Sauce
Pour about one cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the baking dish. This will keep the chicken moist during baking.
3. Add the Chicken
Place the chicken tenders evenly over the marinara sauce. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
4. Pour More Sauce
Ladle the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well covered.
5. Bake the Chicken
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 155°F (68°C). The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken pieces.
6. Add Cheese and Broil
Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Switch your oven to broil and return the dish to the oven for 2 to 5 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a golden-brown finish.
7. Let It Rest
Take the chicken out and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
8. Serve
Serve your chicken marinara over cooked spaghetti or any pasta of your choice. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Marinara
– Use quality marinara sauce: The sauce is the star here, so pick a flavorful brand or make your own for the best taste.
– Avoid overcooking: Chicken can dry out quickly, so use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
– Add herbs: Fresh basil, oregano, or parsley can elevate the flavor.
– Try different cheeses: Mixing ricotta or cottage cheese into the sauce before baking adds creaminess.
– Make it ahead: You can prepare the dish in advance and bake it when ready to eat. It also reheats well.
Variations to Explore
– Chicken Tenderloin Marinara: Chop chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces, mix with a blend of ricotta, cottage cheese, Parmesan, and herbs, then bake with marinara and mozzarella on top for a creamy twist.
– Slow Cooker Version: Layer chicken thighs, sliced onions, bell peppers, marinara sauce, and herbs in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, shred the chicken, and serve over pasta or rice.
– Skillet Method: Sauté onions and peppers, add chicken and marinara sauce, then simmer until the chicken is tender. Finish with cheese melted on top.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken marinara is a crowd-pleaser because it’s:
– Simple and quick: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
– Comforting and cheesy: The melted mozzarella and Parmesan create that irresistible gooey texture.
– Versatile: Serve it with pasta, spaghetti squash, or even on a sandwich bun for a chicken parm twist.
– Healthy: Baking instead of frying keeps it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners when you want something hearty but hassle-free.
Chicken marinara brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen with minimal effort. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a delicious, cheesy, saucy meal that everyone will love!