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Chicken Marinara: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Recipe

Chicken Marinara
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Tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, garlicky marinara sauce with Italian herbs, perfect for serving over pasta or with crusty bread. This simple yet flavorful dish comes together in under 30 minutes for an easy weeknight dinner with restaurant-quality taste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  3. In same skillet, add garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in marinara sauce and stir to combine. Bring to simmer.
  5. Return chicken to skillet, spooning sauce over top. Cover and simmer 10-12 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
  6. Stir in balsamic vinegar if using. Sprinkle with Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate chicken in Italian dressing for 1 hour before cooking
  • Make it cheesy: Top with mozzarella during last 2 minutes of cooking
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with portobello mushrooms
  • Storage: Keeps refrigerated for 3 days; freeze sauce separately for up to 2 months
  • Serve over spaghetti, with garlic bread, or as a chicken Parmesan base

Nutrition

Find it online: https://us.recipesfood.org/chicken-marinara-recipe/

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