Quick & Easy Mozzarella Chicken

Savor the flavors of this Quick & Easy Mozzarella Chicken—tender chicken breasts seasoned with Italian spices, bathed in a rich tomato sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This low-carb dinner comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights!

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or your favorite marinara sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 small to medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella (or shredded mozzarella)
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Sauté the Onions:
    In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and lightly golden around the edges.
  3. Add Garlic & Tomatoes:
    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Brown the Chicken:
    Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just enough to brown the surface slightly.
  5. Bake the Chicken:
    Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Afterward, flip the chicken breasts over.
  6. Add Mozzarella & Finish Baking:
    Place slices of fresh mozzarella (or sprinkle shredded mozzarella) on top of each chicken breast. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish & Serve:
    Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.

Enjoy this easy and delicious mozzarella chicken—perfect for any night of the week!