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Easy Weeknight Mozzarella Chicken

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Tender Italian-seasoned chicken baked in marinara sauce under a layer of melted mozzarella, then served over pasta. A comforting and easy 30-minute weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 small or 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (OR 1 teaspoon each basil and oregano, divided)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 24-ounce jar of marinara sauce
  • 1 ¾ cups (6oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine is a great option)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
  2. If using 2 large chicken breasts, slice each horizontally into 2 thin, even cutlets.
  3. Generously season the top of each piece of chicken with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
  4. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil for the pasta.
  5. Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken seasoning-side down. Season the other side with salt, pepper, and the remaining 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until browned, then flip and brown the second side.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat and pour the marinara sauce over the chicken. Lift each piece with tongs or a fork and nestle it into the sauce so the chicken is coated on all sides.
  7. Divide the mozzarella evenly over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 20 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken registers 165°F. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  8. While the chicken bakes and rests, cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain.
  9. Serve each chicken breast over a bed of pasta and spoon the marinara sauce over the top.

Notes

  • If using large chicken breasts, slice them horizontally into cutlets for faster, more even cooking.
  • Basil and oregano can be used in place of Italian seasoning.
  • Chicken breast thickness varies, so use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F.
  • Fettuccine works especially well, but your favorite pasta can be substituted.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/easy-weeknight-mozzarella-chicken/