Ingredients for Chicken Mozzarella Bombs

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this irresistible dish:

  • 4 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
  • 8 slices mozzarella cheese (or 1½ cups shredded)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce (optional)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Nutritional Benefits

Each Chicken Mozzarella Bomb is a powerhouse of protein — perfect for muscle recovery and energy. With minimal carbohydrates and healthy fats, it’s ideal for keto, low-carb, or high-protein meal plans. Mozzarella adds a rich dose of calcium and essential amino acids, making this meal as nutritious as it is delicious.

By using olive oil instead of butter and baking instead of frying, this recipe keeps calories under control while preserving a decadent taste. It’s a wholesome comfort food you can feel good about eating.

Preparing the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or shallow dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Next, prepare the chicken breasts. Place them on a clean cutting board and carefully make a horizontal slit through the middle of each breast, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through. This pocket will hold your mozzarella filling.

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels — moisture prevents the seasoning from sticking properly and can cause steaming instead of browning.

Seasoning the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, rubbing it in gently for maximum flavor absorption.

This step is crucial because the seasoning doesn’t just sit on the surface — it penetrates the chicken as it cooks, creating layers of flavor in every bite.

Stuffing the Chicken

Take one or two slices of mozzarella cheese (depending on the size of your chicken breast) and tuck them inside the pocket you made earlier. For extra flavor, you can also add a spoonful of marinara sauce or a sprinkle of Parmesan inside each pocket.

Once filled, press the edges together and use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary. This ensures the cheese stays inside while baking, creating that perfect molten center.

Searing for Flavor (Optional)

For an extra layer of richness, you can sear the chicken before baking. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the pan and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden.

This step locks in moisture and enhances flavor, though you can skip it if you prefer to bake directly.

Baking the Mozzarella Bombs

Place the chicken on your prepared baking sheet. If using marinara sauce, spoon a bit over each piece before topping with additional mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. The top should be golden brown with slightly crispy edges.

Finishing Touches

Once baked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the cheese from spilling out immediately when sliced. Remove any toothpicks carefully, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.