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Keto Chicken Mozzarella Bake - Simple, Comforting, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 pounds) or 6–8 thighs
  • Olive oil: For searing and drizzling
  • Garlic: 3–4 cloves, minced
  • Crushed tomatoes or passata: 2 cups (choose a no-sugar-added brand)
  • Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon (optional, for richness)
  • Italian seasoning: 1–2 teaspoons
  • Dried or fresh basil: 1 teaspoon dried or 1/4 cup chopped fresh
  • Red pepper flakes: A pinch (optional, for heat)
  • Sea salt and black pepper: To taste
  • Fresh mozzarella: 8 ounces, sliced or torn
  • Parmesan: 1/3 cup, finely grated
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional, for richness)
  • Fresh parsley or basil: For garnish

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
  3. Sear for flavor: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Transfer to the baking dish. (It won’t be cooked through yet.)
  4. Make a quick sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add another drizzle of olive oil if needed. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, remaining Italian seasoning, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and a small knob of butter if using. Simmer 3–5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  5. Assemble: Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken. Top with mozzarella slices and sprinkle Parmesan over the top.
  6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake 18–22 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Brown the top (optional): Broil on high for 1–2 minutes to get golden, blistered cheese. Keep a close eye on it.
  8. Rest and garnish: Let it rest 5 minutes so the juices settle. Top with fresh parsley or basil.
  9. Serve: Spoon extra sauce over each piece. Great with zucchini noodles, roasted broccoli, or a simple green salad.