Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake
This Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of flavors creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s healthy, quick to prepare, and can be made in just 40 minutes!
A Personal Story Behind My Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake Journey
As a child, I remember my grandmother making various chicken dishes that filled our home with mouth-watering aromas. This recipe is reminiscent of those family gatherings where we’d all come together to enjoy a hearty meal. The Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake has become a staple in my home, reflecting the warmth of family and the joy of sharing good food. I love how this dish not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart.
What Makes This Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe Special?
What sets this Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake apart is the balance of flavors and textures. Sautéed mushrooms and onions create a savory base that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors. The addition of mozzarella cheese adds a delightful creaminess, while the spices bring a touch of warmth. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to add your favorite herbs or vegetables for extra nutrition and taste.
The Full Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 8 ounces sliced button mushrooms
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 (1-pound total) boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded down to 1/4-inch thickness
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 4 ounces shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1/2 tablespoon butter and add 1/2 tablespoon olive oil.
- Add sliced mushrooms and onions to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 20 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer half of the mushroom mixture to the prepared baking dish and set the rest aside.
- Return the skillet to heat, add the remaining butter and olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian Seasoning.
- Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet for 2 minutes per side until lightly browned. If needed, cook in batches for even coloring.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and place them over the mushrooms in the baking dish.
- Return the skillet to the stove, add chicken broth, and scrape up the browned bits. Bring to a boil and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the liquid reduces. Tip: This will enhance the sauce’s flavor.
- Top the chicken breasts with the remaining mushroom mixture, sprinkle cheese over the chicken, and pour in the prepared chicken broth.
- Bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Tip: Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake
This Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of rice or pasta. If you want to get creative, consider adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the mushroom mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a delightful crust.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake
Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 4
Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 8 ounces sliced button mushrooms
- 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced
- Salt to taste
- fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded down to 1/4-inch thickness
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 4 ounces shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup low sodium chicken broth
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1/2 tablespoon butter and add 1/2 tablespoon olive oil.
- Add sliced mushrooms and onions to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 20 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer half of the mushroom mixture to the prepared baking dish and set the rest aside.
- Return the skillet to heat, add the remaining butter and olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian Seasoning.
- Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet for 2 minutes per side until lightly browned. If needed, cook in batches for even coloring.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and place them over the mushrooms in the baking dish.
- Return the skillet to the stove, add chicken broth, and scrape up the browned bits. Bring to a boil and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the liquid reduces. Tip: This will enhance the sauce's flavor.
- Top the chicken breasts with the remaining mushroom mixture, sprinkle cheese over the chicken, and pour in the prepared chicken broth.
- Bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Tip: Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.