Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This marinara chicken breast recipe is your answer. It's a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to takeout. Let’s dive into this fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (choose your favorite!)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
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Brown (Optional): For extra flavor and a beautiful presentation, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step is optional but highly recommended!
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Simmer in Marinara: Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken breasts in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer should register 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Marinara Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If browning the chicken, ensure there's enough space between the breasts to allow for even cooking. You might need to cook them in batches.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Red pepper flakes add a nice kick!
- Use high-quality marinara sauce: The better the sauce, the better the dish will taste. Consider making your own homemade marinara for an even more flavorful experience!
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
Delicious Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding chopped onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce during the simmering process.
- Cheese please!: Sprinkle some mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 4-serving recipe without olive oil and using a standard jar of marinara sauce. Nutritional content can vary significantly depending on the ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This simple marinara chicken breast recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. It's a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and satisfying, perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal. Enjoy this best recipe and let us know how it turns out!