Are you looking for a delicious and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than chicken and marinara! This classic combination is a staple in many cuisines, and for good reason. The rich flavor of marinara sauce pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy texture of chicken. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, this dynamic duo is sure to please.
From comfort food classics like chicken parmesan and pasta bakes, to more adventurous dishes like stuffed peppers and calzones, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each of these recipes is easy to make and packed with flavor. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover your new favorite way to enjoy chicken and marinara.
Chicken Parmesan with Homemade Marinara
Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this simple recipe that combines crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup homemade marinara sauce (see below for recipe)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Homemade Marinara Sauce:
– 2 cups crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare chicken by dipping in flour mixture (flour, salt, and pepper), then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce over low heat.
5. Assemble Parmesan by placing cooked chicken on a baking sheet, spooning marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkling with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Marinara Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines spicy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, marinara sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Chicken Marinara Pasta Bake
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and creamy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate pot, combine marinara sauce and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over low heat.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce mixture. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara with Mozzarella
Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara with Mozzarella Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a slow cooker, resulting in tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 jar (28 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the chicken.
4. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove from slow cooker and sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Grilled Chicken Marinara Flatbread Pizza
Grilled Chicken Marinara Flatbread Pizza Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the flavors of Italy and the American South with a twist on traditional pizza. Marinated grilled chicken, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese come together to create a flavorful flatbread pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 pre-made or homemade flatbread crust (about 12 inches)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Place the flatbread crust on a baking sheet.
6. Spread marinara sauce over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips and place on top of the sauce.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Marinara Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent twist on traditional stuffed shells! Tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese come together to create a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Marinara and Rice
A hearty, one-pot wonder that combines juicy chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and creamy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, cooked rice, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the browned chicken back into the pot; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Chicken Marinara Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines juicy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and a crispy baked exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle marinara sauce over the meatballs and toss gently to coat.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chicken Marinara Lasagna Roll-Ups
Elevate your lasagna game with these flavorful roll-ups, packed with tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken strips until browned, then set aside.
4. Combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and parsley in a bowl.
5. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the sauce mixture onto each cooked noodle, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Place a cooked chicken strip at one end of each noodle, then roll up tightly.
7. Place rolls seam-side down in a baking dish, overlapping slightly.
8. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken with Marinara Dipping Sauce
Elevate your mealtime with this mouthwatering combination of juicy chicken, rich garlic butter, and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the chicken is cooking, warm marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
7. Serve chicken hot with warmed marinara sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Chicken Marinara Quesadillas with Basil
These flavorful quesadillas combine the classic Italian flavors of chicken marinara with the creamy richness of melted cheese and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 large flour tortillas
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chicken, olive oil, garlic, and marinara sauce.
2. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
4. Add the chicken mixture on half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Sprinkle chopped basil on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Skillet Chicken Marinara with Olives and Capers
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty skillet dish featuring chicken, marinara sauce, olives, and capers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add marinara sauce to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add olives, capers, and oregano to the sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet; cook until coated in sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Marinara Calzones
A twist on the classic Italian turnover, these chicken and marinara calzones are a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roll out the pizza dough into thin sheets. Place about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture onto one half of each sheet, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
7. Place calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Chicken Marinara Subs
Satisfy your cravings with these flavorful and easy-to-make chicken marinara subs. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 4 sub rolls
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together marinara sauce and 2 tbsp olive oil.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinara mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinara mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toast the sub rolls.
7. Assemble the subs by placing the baked chicken on the toasted rolls, then topping with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Marinara Gnocchi Bake
A comforting, one-pot dish that combines the flavors of chicken, marinara sauce, and pillowy gnocchi. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup gnocchi
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the gnocchi. Top with the chicken-marinara mixture, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Marinara Casserole
Herbed Chicken and Marinara Casserole Recipe
Summary:
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of chicken, herbs, and marinara sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until coated with the sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Marinara Risotto with Parmesan
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and a hint of nutty parmesan cheese. This comforting risotto is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed Arborio and white rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken in olive oil until browned and cooked through.
3. In a medium saucepan, heat broth over low heat. Add Arborio rice and stir to combine.
4. In a separate pan, sauté garlic and marinara sauce for 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir risotto mixture into the pan with marinara sauce. Cook until liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
6. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Chicken and Marinara Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, these zucchini boats are packed with chicken, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the zucchinis and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Chicken Marinara Tortellini Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the best of Italian cuisine. This recipe is a twist on traditional tortellini soup, adding chicken and marinara sauce for an extra boost of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12-16 cheese tortellini
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add tortellini to the pot and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chicken Marinara Bruschetta with Fresh Basil
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and easy-to-make bruschetta recipe, featuring tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and a hint of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Remove chicken from marinade and cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices until lightly browned.
5. Top toasted bread with cooked chicken, marinara sauce, and chopped fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime routine with these mouthwatering chicken and marinara recipes! From classic comfort food to innovative twists, this collection has something for every occasion. Try making Chicken Parmesan with homemade marinara or Spicy Chicken and Marinara Stuffed Peppers for a flavorful fiesta. Or, go the easy route with Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara with Mozzarella or Skillet Chicken Marinara with Olives and Capers. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, pizza, or something entirely new, these 20 delicious recipes will inspire your culinary creativity and satisfy your cravings.