Savory Mushroom and Cheese Chicken is a delicious, comforting dish that features juicy, tender chicken breasts topped with a rich, flavorful combination of garlic, mushrooms, and melty mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Baked to perfection, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz sliced mushrooms
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet and top each breast with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Substitute the mozzarella with other melting cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian alternative, you can omit the chicken and use large portobello mushrooms instead, topped with cheese for a hearty, mushroom-based dish.
Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor. A little fresh basil would also pair nicely with the mushrooms and cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe? Yes, skin-on chicken breasts will work, but be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
What kind of mushrooms work best for this dish? Cremini or white button mushrooms are the best choice for this recipe, but you can also use shiitake or portobello for a deeper, more earthy flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They are more flavorful and juicy, but will need a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the chicken and mushrooms in advance, then top with cheese and bake just before serving. You can also reheat the entire dish the next day.
Can I make this dish without cheese? Yes, you can skip the cheese for a lighter option or substitute with a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I add vegetables to this dish? Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions for extra flavor and texture. Just sauté them with the mushrooms before adding the chicken back to the skillet.
Can I use pre-sliced mushrooms? Yes, pre-sliced mushrooms will work well in this recipe and save you time.
What should I serve with this dish? This dish pairs nicely with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 1 month. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Conclusion

Savory Mushroom and Cheese Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, sautéed garlic mushrooms, and melted cheese is both comforting and satisfying. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal your family will love!