Cheesy Mushroom Chicken Breast

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, this Cheesy Mushroom Chicken Breast recipe is a must-try. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are topped with a savory mushroom and onion mixture, finished with melted mozzarella cheese, and baked to perfection. This recipe combines simple ingredients with bold flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or even a small dinner party.

The combination of earthy mushrooms, sweet onions, and melted cheese brings richness without being heavy, while the chicken broth enhances the depth of flavor. It’s an easy recipe that feels gourmet and delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in just 35 minutes
• Juicy chicken with a cheesy, flavorful topping
• Packed with mushrooms and onions for added nutrients
• Elegant enough for a dinner party, simple enough for a weeknight
• Minimal ingredients, big flavor
• Gluten-free friendly and family-approved

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4.

Mushroom Mixture

• 8 ounces sliced button mushrooms
• 1 sweet yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Chicken Breasts

• 4 chicken breasts, 1/2 inch thick
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Liquids & Fats

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon butter, divided
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Cheese & Garnish

• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Onions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1/2 tablespoon butter with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil.

Add the sliced mushrooms and onions, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add minced garlic and cook for 20 seconds until fragrant.

Transfer half of the mushroom mixture to the prepared baking dish and set the remainder aside for later topping.

Step 3: Cook Chicken Breasts

Return the skillet to medium heat and add the remaining butter and olive oil.

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Add chicken to the skillet, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 2 minutes per side until lightly browned.

Step 4: Arrange Chicken and Mushrooms

Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and arrange them over the mushroom mixture in the baking dish.

Top each breast with the remaining mushroom mixture. Sprinkle 4 ounces shredded mozzarella evenly over the chicken.

Step 5: Prepare Chicken Broth Sauce

Return the skillet to the stove and add 1/2 cup chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil and cook for 4–5 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.

Pour the prepared chicken broth over the chicken and mushrooms in the baking dish.

Step 6: Bake the Dish

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the baking dish from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy, savory flavors.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Cheesy: Add Parmesan or Gruyère cheese for added depth.
• Garlic Lovers: Increase garlic to 2 teaspoons for a more pronounced flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with thick portobello mushroom caps.
• Make Ahead: Sauté mushrooms and onions a day ahead; assemble and bake when ready.
• Spicy Twist: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the chicken before baking.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish features:

• Savory & Umami: Mushrooms, chicken, and browned bits in the pan
• Creamy & Cheesy: Mozzarella melts over the top for richness
• Herbaceous: Italian seasoning and parsley add freshness
• Balanced: Slight sweetness from onions complements savory chicken

Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (1 chicken breast with topping):

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: ~700mg

Gluten-free and high-protein friendly.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Sauté mushrooms and onions the night before for faster assembly.
• Chicken can be seasoned ahead and refrigerated for a few hours.
• Assemble the dish and bake when ready; leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes! Cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms work well and add deeper flavor.

Can this be cooked on the stovetop entirely?

Yes, after browning the chicken, cover the skillet with a lid and simmer over low heat for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Absolutely, just ensure it’s 4 ounces and evenly sprinkled over the chicken.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook in the skillet; bake only until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep	10 minutes
Cook	25 minutes
Total	35 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cheesy Mushroom Chicken Breast hot from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley. Complement with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or rice
• Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus
• A side of warm bread to soak up the juices

Recipe Variations

1. Herbed Mushroom Chicken: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the mushrooms.
2. Creamy Twist: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream with the chicken broth before pouring over the chicken.
3. Low-Fat Option: Use part-skim mozzarella and skip some butter.
4. Spicy Cheese Chicken: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella.

Ingredient Spotlight

Mushrooms

Button mushrooms are earthy and absorb the pan’s flavors beautifully. Slice evenly for uniform cooking.

Chicken Breast

Opt for medium-thick, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and juiciness. Pounding slightly to 1/2 inch ensures they cook quickly and evenly.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Brown chicken quickly to lock in juices without overcooking.
• Cook mushrooms and onions first to develop flavor and reduce excess moisture.
• Scrape browned bits from the skillet when making the chicken broth sauce to add depth.
• Rest chicken briefly before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezer

Freeze unbaked assembled dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fat	20g
Fiber	1g

High-protein, gluten-free friendly, and family-approved.

Expanded Conclusion

Cheesy Mushroom Chicken Breast is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish that elevates simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. Juicy chicken, tender mushrooms, and gooey mozzarella combine to create a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

With easy steps, minimal prep, and customizable flavors, this recipe will become a staple in your dinner rotation. Serve it hot, enjoy the cheesy goodness, and savor a dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent.

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