Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 5–6 minutes until the mushrooms become tender and release their moisture.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well for one minute. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Place the seared chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy mushroom sauce evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top for a delicious golden finish.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or buttered pasta.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts if preferred.
- Add spinach during the final few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
- A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat.
- For extra richness, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Bake pairs wonderfully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Garlic butter rice
- Egg noodles
- Roasted broccoli
- Green beans
- Caesar salad
- Crusty artisan bread
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Calcium: 240mg
- Iron: 2mg