Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake

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Are you ready to indulge in a dish that combines the flavors of classic cheddar biscuits with tender, juicy chicken? This Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake is a comfort food dream come true. The creamy marinara sauce pairs beautifully with the buttery, cheesy biscuit topping, creating a delightful one-pan meal that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive right into the details of this delicious recipe!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake is not only unbelievably tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet yet is perfect for any casual meal. The buttery cheddar biscuit topping is reminiscent of the famous Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits we all know and love but elevated with savory chicken and a rich marinara sauce. Plus, the combination of cheese, chicken, and green onions adds a delightful twist that makes this bake a unique and satisfying dinner option.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix
• ¾ cup cold water
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup green onions, thinly sliced
• 12 ounces marinara sauce
• ½ cup melted butter

How To Make Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the boneless skinless chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until they are browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it in a baking dish.

Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce

Pour the marinara sauce over the cooked chicken breasts in the baking dish, ensuring they are well-coated. The marinara sauce will add a rich flavor and moisture to the dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix

In a mixing bowl, combine the Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix with the cold water. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the biscuits to remain fluffy.

Step 5: Fold in Cheese and Green Onions

Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and thinly sliced green onions to the biscuit mixture. This addition brings an extra layer of flavor to the biscuit topping.

Step 6: Top the Chicken with Biscuit Mixture

Spoon the biscuit mixture over the chicken and marinara sauce in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered.

Step 7: Drizzle with Butter

Drizzle the melted butter over the biscuit topping. This will create a golden crust as it bakes, adding richness and flavor to your dish.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional green onions if desired, and then enjoy your Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake with your favorite side dishes!

Expert Tips

• For more flavor, you can season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any of your favorite spices before cooking.
• Consider adding some veggies such as spinach or bell peppers to the marinara sauce for added nutrients and flavor.
• If you like it spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or the biscuit mixture.
• For a gooier cheese pull, feel free to add more cheddar cheese on top of the biscuit layer before baking.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the chicken for cooked shrimp or diced turkey for a different protein option.
• Try using different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
• Add diced tomatoes or olives to the marinara sauce for a Mediterranean flair.
• Substitute the marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy version of this bake.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinara mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, prepare the biscuit topping and bake as instructed.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

This recipe is not low-carb due to the biscuit mix, but you could try using a low-carb alternative for the biscuit topping.

What sides pair well with Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake?

This dish pairs nicely with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I use different types of biscuits?

Absolutely! While the Red Lobster mix is traditional, you can use any biscuit mix or even make a homemade biscuit topping for a personal touch.

Conclusion

This Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its creamy marinara sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy biscuit topping, it’s a dish that’s packed with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this recipe is a winner that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering bake—your taste buds will thank you!

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