Chicken Recipes with Marinara – Flavorful Dishes for Every Occasion

Chicken Recipes with Marinara is a timeless combination that brings together tender, juicy chicken with the rich, tangy flavors of marinara sauce. This versatile dish can be enjoyed in various forms, from classic baked recipes to unique skillet and casserole variations. In this guide, we’ll explore creative, easy-to-make chicken recipes with marinara, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a romantic dinner, or simply a cozy night at home, these recipes offer a delectable meal option.

1. Classic Baked Chicken Marinara

Baked chicken marinara is a go-to recipe that is both simple and satisfying. This recipe requires minimal ingredients yet yields a hearty dish with layers of flavors, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup marinara sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Olive oil for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Add the Marinara: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of the marinara-covered chicken.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with pasta, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables.

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2. Skillet Chicken Marinara with Spinach and Mozzarella

For a quicker, stovetop version of chicken marinara, try this skillet recipe. Adding spinach gives this dish a nutritional boost, and the one-pan preparation makes for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil

Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides.
2. Add the Spinach and Marinara: Add the spinach leaves and pour marinara sauce over the chicken. Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the chicken and cover until melted.
4. Serve: Garnish with basil or parsley and serve with garlic bread or pasta.

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3. Chicken Marinara Casserole

This casserole version is great for serving a crowd and is an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings. It combines the flavors of chicken marinara with pasta, making it a filling one-dish meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1½ cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, shredded chicken, and marinara sauce.
2. Assemble: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
3. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side salad or garlic bread.

4. Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara

This slow cooker recipe allows the chicken to absorb the marinara flavors over time, resulting in an extra-tender, flavorful dish. Plus, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that frees up time for other tasks.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1½ cups marinara sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the marinara sauce over it.
2. Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-5 hours.
3. Serve: Garnish with basil and serve with rice or pasta.

5. Grilled Chicken Marinara Sandwich

For a twist on traditional chicken marinara, try this sandwich recipe. It’s ideal for a quick lunch and can be easily customized with additional toppings.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 4 slices of provolone cheese
• 4 ciabatta rolls
• Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Grill on medium heat until fully cooked.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread marinara sauce on each roll. Place the grilled chicken on the roll, add a slice of provolone cheese, and top with fresh basil.
3. Serve: Serve warm with a side of salad or fries.

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Tips for Cooking with Marinara Sauce

• Choose Quality Marinara: Use a high-quality marinara sauce, whether store-bought or homemade, to elevate the dish’s flavor.
• Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to increase the nutritional content and flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add a burst of freshness and color.

Health Benefits of Chicken Marinara Recipes

Chicken is a lean protein, which is beneficial for muscle growth, weight management, and overall health. Pairing it with marinara sauce—a tomato-based sauce high in antioxidants like lycopene—creates a wholesome meal packed with nutrients. Additionally, you can boost these recipes’ nutritional value by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Internal and External Links

For more chicken recipes, be sure to check out our extensive collection of chicken recipes on Recipesify. This recipe collection includes unique twists and different marinara-based recipes perfect for every occasion.

For an in-depth guide on making marinara sauce at home, refer to The Spruce Eats’ homemade marinara recipe. Adding a homemade marinara sauce to these recipes can intensify the flavors and add a personal touch to each dish.

For other delicious and healthy marinara recipes, check out the American Heart Association’s guide to healthy marinara sauces.

Conclusion

Chicken recipes with marinara sauce are a delicious way to enjoy a satisfying and nutritious meal. From baked to skillet, casserole, and even sandwich options, these recipes offer a variety of ways to enjoy the classic combination of chicken and marinara. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, these dishes are perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week.

With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can bring out the best in these dishes, adding a twist to traditional chicken recipes that everyone will enjoy. For more exciting recipes and tips on cooking chicken, explore the comprehensive collection available at Recipesify.