Easy Italian Chicken Bake (Gluten-Free)

This easy Italian chicken bake is a one-pan wonder that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Using simple ingredients like tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese, this gluten-free dish is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. It’s packed with flavor, and the best part is that it’s easy to prepare and requires just one baking dish for cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 cups marinara sauce (gluten-free)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts to keep them moist and flavorful during baking.

2. Add the Marinara Sauce

In a baking dish, place the seasoned chicken breasts. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re well-covered. The sauce will infuse the chicken with rich, savory flavor as it bakes.

3. Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese generously on top of the chicken breasts. The mozzarella will melt into the sauce, creating a deliciously gooey layer, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor.

4. Bake the Chicken

Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown and bubble.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot, either with a side of roasted vegetables, gluten-free pasta, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:

• Chicken Options: For a juicier result, you can use bone-in chicken breasts, though they may require a longer baking time.

• Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer dairy-free, swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for plant-based cheese alternatives.

• Additional Veggies: Add some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the marinara sauce for extra veggies and flavor.

Conclusion: Simple and Flavorful

This easy Italian chicken bake is a perfect go-to meal for busy nights. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a comforting, flavorful dish that is gluten-free and loved by everyone. Its simple combination of chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese makes it a hit every time!