This Easy Italian Chicken Dinner is packed with bold flavors and comes together in just 30 minutes! With tender chicken breasts, savory marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, it’s the perfect meal to enjoy with your family after a busy day.
🔥 Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🍽️ Cook Time: 20 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 30 minutes | 🍴 Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Let’s Cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prep the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C).
Add marinara & cheese: Once the chicken is cooked, pour marinara sauce over the top of each chicken breast. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve & enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with pasta, rice, or a side salad.
🍽️ “Juicy chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese—this Italian chicken dinner is the perfect weeknight comfort food!”
Tips & Variations:
Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a little heat.
Low-carb option: Serve the chicken over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a healthier, low-carb meal.
Baked version: Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking dish, top with sauce and cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 320 | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 8g | Protein: 36g
📸 Tried this easy Italian chicken dinner? Tag @Smoothly_Cooking on Instagram and share your delicious creation! 🍗🍅