Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make chicken dish, look no further! This creamy, cheesy chicken bake is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that your whole family will love. The combination of mayonnaise, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese creates a rich sauce that keeps the chicken moist and adds an irresistible cheesy crust. Let’s dive into the ingredients and see how to make this delightful dish!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4 – 6 ounces each)
1 cup full-fat mayonnaise
1 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese, divided (⅔ cup and ⅓ cup)
¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided (½ cup and ¼ cup)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Prep Time
Approximately 10 minutes for preparation.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 to 40 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes (including prep)
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy this delicious cheesy chicken dish! Follow the steps carefully for a tender and flavorful meal that will impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Mayo Mixture
In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ⅔ cup grated mozzarella, ½ cup grated parmesan, garlic powder, kosher salt, fresh cracked black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are completely blended together.
Step 3: Prepare Chicken Breasts
Pat each chicken breast dry using paper towels. This step is essential to help reduce any excess moisture that could prevent the chicken from cooking properly.
Step 4: Apply Mayonnaise Mixture
Divide the mayonnaise mixture evenly among the chicken breasts. Spread the mixture over the entire surface of each breast to ensure even flavor and moisture during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. The chicken is done when the tops are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Add Remaining Cheese
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of grated mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese on top of each breast. Cover the baking dish with heavy-duty aluminum foil and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and flavors to meld.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
After resting, garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the chicken warm and enjoy!
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Preparation
Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly; this will help with cooking and browning.
Note 2: Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference, but mozzarella and parmesan create a delicious combination.
Note 3: Storage
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain its texture.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting involves cooking food evenly in the oven, allowing it to develop a nice golden-brown color and flavor. In this recipe, the chicken is roasted at 375°F until it reaches the right doneness.
Mixing
Mixing is the technique of combining ingredients to achieve a uniform texture and flavor. Here, the mayonnaise, cheeses, and seasonings are mixed together to create a creamy topping for the chicken.
Drying
Drying the chicken breasts with paper towels is essential for achieving a better crust and avoiding excess moisture in the final dish. This helps the mayonnaise mixture adhere better to the chicken.
Layering
Layering is an important technique where ingredients are added in stages. The mayonnaise mixture is spread evenly over the chicken breasts, and then additional cheese is layered on top before the final baking.
Resting
Resting allows the cooked chicken to stabilize and retain its juices. After baking, the chicken is covered and left to rest, which enhances its flavor and tenderness.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but cooking time may vary due to their different size and fat content.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute for mayonnaise, but it will alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. A meat thermometer can provide an accurate reading.
Can this dish be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it just before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy, cheesy chicken masterpiece is an easy and delicious way to prepare boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The combination of mayonnaise and cheeses creates a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to please anyone at the table. Topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch, this recipe is perfect for casual dinners or special occasions.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Florentine
Add spinach and artichokes to the mayonnaise mixture for a creamy Chicken Florentine twist.
Buffalo Chicken Bake
Mix in some buffalo sauce with the mayonnaise for a spicy buffalo chicken variation.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Enhance the flavors by mixing in roasted garlic for a deeper garlic Parmesan flavor.
Cheesy Pesto Chicken
Incorporate pesto sauce with the mayonnaise for a basil-infused cheesy chicken dish.
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
Fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the cheese mixture for a Mediterranean flair.
Salsa Chicken
Top the chicken with fresh salsa before baking for a zesty, southwestern twist.
Mushroom and Swiss Chicken
Add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese on top before serving for a delicious mushroom variation.
