Easy Cheesy Baked Chicken Breasts with Mushrooms Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that’s both easy to prepare and delicious, look no further than Easy Cheesy Baked Chicken Breasts with Mushrooms. This recipe features tender chicken breasts baked to perfection, topped with sautéed mushrooms and melted cheese, creating a comforting meal that is sure to please your family or guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your cheesy baked chicken breasts:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook evenly while ensuring the cheese melts perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Trim the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat or connective tissue.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Layer the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. If using cream or cream cheese, spread it over the top of each chicken breast for added creaminess.
- Add the Mushrooms: Spoon the sautéed mushrooms evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly on top of the mushrooms. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top as well.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Cover the Dish: If desired, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist during baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). If you want a golden top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy chicken breasts with mushrooms alongside your choice of sides.
Customizing Your Dish
This recipe is highly customizable! Here are some ways you can adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences:
1 Vegetable Variations
In addition to mushrooms, consider adding or substituting with other vegetables:
- Spinach: Fresh spinach can be sautéed with the mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
- Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers add a sweet crunch. Sauté them along with the mushrooms.
- Zucchini or Squash: Thinly sliced zucchini or yellow squash can be added for extra vegetables.
- Broccoli: Blanched broccoli florets add a lovely color and crunch to the dish.
2 Cheese Options
Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference:
- Mozzarella: For a classic cheesy pull.
- Cheddar: For a sharp flavor that pairs well with chicken.
- Swiss Cheese: Adds a nutty flavor that complements the mushrooms.
- Goat Cheese: For a tangy twist, crumbled goat cheese can be sprinkled on top before baking.
3 Herb and Spice Variations
Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor:
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon for an aromatic touch.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes for some heat or Cajun seasoning for a southern flair.
- Smoked Paprika: For a subtle smokiness that adds depth.
Serving Suggestions
Easy Cheesy Baked Chicken Breasts with Mushrooms pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the cheesy goodness.
- Pasta: A side of garlic bread or pasta complements the dish beautifully.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make excellent accompaniments.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked chicken for up to 3 months. Be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Reheating
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: For quick reheating, place a chicken breast on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Tips for Success
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked properly, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, bake the chicken in multiple dishes to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain moisture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. If you’re cooking from frozen, you may need to increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
2. Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any mushrooms you prefer, such as portobello, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms, for varying flavors and textures.
3. Is there a healthier alternative to the cheese?
You can use reduced-fat cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the extra calories and fat.
4. What if I don’t have Italian herbs?
If you don’t have Italian herbs on hand, you can substitute with other dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or a blend of your favorite herbs.
Conclusion
Easy Cheesy Baked Chicken Breasts with Mushrooms is a satisfying, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat. With its creamy mushroom topping and melted cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Feel free to customize the ingredients and serving options to fit your taste preferences, and enjoy this meal any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and gooey cheese makes for a delightful dinner that everyone will love!
Now that you have this recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the joy of sharing this meal with your loved ones!
Easy Cheesy Baked Chicken Breasts with Mushrooms Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or a little olive oil.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Season them with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until well mixed.
6. Assemble the Dish:
- Pour the cream mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Top the dish with the sautéed mushrooms and then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added flavor and color.