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A close-up, appetizing shot of a scoop of baked pasta casserole with marinara sauce, ground meat (or chicken), and a thick layer of melted, bubbly mozzarella cheese on top, garnished with parsley.

Easy Chicken Marinara Casserole

A simple, flavorful chicken casserole baked in rich marinara sauce and topped with melty mozzarella and parmesan. Perfect for an easy weeknight Italian-inspired meal!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
  4. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the baking dish.
  5. Spread the minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
  6. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated.
  7. Scatter cherry tomato halves over the top, allowing some to sink into the sauce.
  8. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly across the dish, followed by grated parmesan.
  9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbling.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley.

Notes

Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!