Cheesy Baked Chicken with Mushrooms and Onions

Cheesy Baked Chicken with Mushrooms and Onions

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional Marinade:
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
   • If you are marinating the chicken, mix the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Place the chicken in the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Cook the Onions and Mushrooms:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced onions and cook until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes more.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Chicken:
   • Place the seasoned (or marinated) chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Evenly distribute the sautéed onions and mushrooms over the top of each chicken breast.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the mushroom and onion mixture on each chicken breast.
4. Bake the Chicken:
   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • If you prefer a more browned cheese topping, you can switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions:

• This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips:

• You can customize the cheese blend according to your preference. For a sharper taste, try adding some Parmesan or Gruyère.
• For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the onion and mushroom mixture during cooking.

This Cheesy Baked Chicken with Mushrooms and Onions is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Enjoy!