Hello food lovers! Welcome back to our kitchen! Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s guaranteed to elevate your weeknight dinners: Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake. This comforting dish combines juicy chicken breasts, gooey mozzarella, and the refreshing aroma of fresh basil, all baked to perfection. It’s a recipe that is both easy to prepare and bursting with Italian-inspired flavors. So, let’s dive into this mouthwatering creation together!
INTRODUCTION
Let me take you on a journey to the heart of Mediterranean cuisine with this Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake. It’s a dish inspired by the vibrant, fresh flavors of Italy. Think of the creamy texture of melted mozzarella, the tangy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the fragrant kick of fresh basil, all wrapped around tender chicken breasts. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings joy to any dinner table.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or simply craving comfort food, this recipe checks all the boxes. Not only is it rich in flavor, but it’s also a breeze to make. In my household, it’s become a go-to when we want something hearty yet simple. The best part? It only takes 40 minutes from start to finish!
INGREDIENTS
To prepare this comforting recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Feel free to adjust the heat by leaving out the red pepper flakes or try using baby spinach in place of the basil for a milder flavor. If you’re on a dairy-free diet, substitute mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
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HOW TO MAKE CREAMY MOZZARELLA AND BASIL CHICKEN BAKE
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake:
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Season the chicken: Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the garlic-balsamic mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and the minced garlic. Drizzle this mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Add the vegetables and cheese: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls around the chicken. Be sure to nestle them in between the chicken breasts for even distribution.
- Top with Parmesan and spices: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish. For an extra kick, add the red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat).
- Bake to perfection: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Finish with basil: Once the chicken is out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the fresh chopped basil over the top. This will add a burst of freshness to the dish.
- Serve: Drizzle any remaining juices from the baking dish over the chicken before serving. Enjoy your delicious chicken bake while it’s still hot!
HELPFUL TIPS
- Even cooking: Make sure the chicken breasts are of similar size to ensure they cook evenly.
- Extra flavor: For added richness, marinate the chicken in the garlic-balsamic mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Cheese swaps: If you can’t find fresh mozzarella balls, you can use shredded mozzarella instead. Just make sure to distribute it evenly across the dish.
COOKING TIPS
- Use a meat thermometer: This will ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without overcooking it. You want the internal temperature to hit 165°F (75°C).
- Broil at the end: For a nice golden-brown top, you can switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Ovenproof skillet: If you have one, consider using an ovenproof skillet for this recipe. It’ll create a better sear on the chicken and add more depth to the overall flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Wondering what to serve alongside your Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake? Here are a few ideas:
- Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the dish.
- Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes complement the chicken beautifully.
- A fresh green salad: Toss together some arugula with a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Wine pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio would pair excellently with this dish, balancing out the creaminess of the mozzarella.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Here’s the Nutritional Information for the Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake (per serving):
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 47g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 560mg
- Potassium: 800mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 20% DV
- Vitamin C: 15% DV
- Calcium: 25% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and calcium from the mozzarella, making it a hearty yet nutritious meal. The fresh basil and tomatoes provide a good dose of antioxidants and vitamins, too!
STORAGE AND LEFTOVERS
- Refrigerate: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken bake will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
If you’re looking for a creative way to use leftovers, try shredding the chicken and tossing it with pasta or serving it over a bed of quinoa for a quick and easy lunch.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor to the dish due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
What’s the best way to tell when the chicken is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. You’ll want to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
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These recipes are just as simple and satisfying as the Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake!
CONCLUSION
I hope you give this Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake a try soon! It’s the perfect combination of comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let us know how it turned out for you. Feel free to share your own twists on this recipe—whether it’s using different cheeses or adding extra veggies. Happy cooking!
