Pesto and Marinara Mozzarella Chicken Bake
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Course
Main Course
Pesto and Marinara Mozzarella Chicken Bake
Description
This recipe combines cubed chicken breasts tossed in pesto to impart herbal, nutty flavors with a classic marinara sauce that provides tangy tomato notes. Slices of mozzarella cheese placed on top melt during baking to create a savory, creamy layer. The baking is performed in stages with foil covering initially to keep moisture, then uncovered to brown the cheese. This ensures tender chicken with a melted, slightly golden cheese topping.
The dish pairs well with cooked noodles, which can soak up the flavorful sauce. The protein is lean chicken, and the balance of pesto and marinara offers complementary herb and tomato flavors typical of Mediterranean cooking.
For best results, fresh chicken should be used as frozen may release excess moisture. Using freshly grated mozzarella in place of pre-shredded enhances melting. The marinara can be homemade or store-bought. The recipe is adaptable to adjust portion sizes or ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breast cut into 2-inch cubes, boneless skinless
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- ¼ to ½ to ½ cup pesto
- 4 cups marinara sauce see note
- 8 mozzarella cheese about 1 to 2 cups, thick slices or freshly grated
- noodles cooked noodles for serving (optional, hot cooked; for serving (optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9X13-inch (or slightly smaller) baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel and lightly season all sides with salt and pepper. Spoon the pesto into the baking dish and toss the chicken with the pesto until evenly covered, arranging them into a single layer.
- Pour the marinara evenly over the top of the chicken. Top with mozzarella slices (or with shredded cheese, if using).
- Cover the dish with lightly greased foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10-15 minutes longer until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is hot and bubbling.
- Serve over hot, cooked noodles, if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh chicken breast rather than frozen to avoid extra moisture in the dish.
- Grate mozzarella cheese yourself for a better melt compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Homemade or store-bought marinara sauce can be used depending on availability and preference.
- Adjust the amount of chicken for larger portions without changing other ingredients.
- Store-bought pesto from Costco refrigerated section is recommended but alternatives work as well.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 Serving | |
| Calories | 364kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 43g | 86% |
| Fat | 16g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 127mg | 42% |
| Sodium | 1362mg | 57% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 8g | 16% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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