I love sharing recipes that bring big flavor without a lot of work, and this baked chicken with mushrooms is one of my absolute favorites. It’s a dish I’ve made countless times, and it always delivers perfectly tender chicken smothered in golden, bubbly cheese and savory mushrooms.
The first time I tried this recipe, I was blown away by how simple the steps were for such an impressive meal. Trust me, if you’re a fan of creamy, hearty comfort food, you’re in for a treat.
Credit: tasteofhome
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients that work together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need and why they’re essential:
- 1 tablespoon butter
(Adds richness and flavor to the mushrooms. Don’t substitute margarine for the same effect.) - 2 tablespoons olive oil
(Perfect for sautéing and browning without overpowering other flavors.) - 8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
(Use fresh for the best texture and flavor; cremini or baby Bella mushrooms are good alternatives.) - 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
(Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized. Avoid red onions for this dish.) - Salt and black pepper to taste (Enhances every ingredient.)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
(Fresh garlic brings bold flavor you can’t go wrong with.) - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 1 pound total
(Pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.) - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
(Adds a layered, garlicky goodness.) - ½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
(Brings subtle smokiness and an appealing color.) - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
(A blend of herbs that elevates the overall taste. Use dried basil, oregano, and thyme if needed.) - 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
(Melts beautifully; feel free to swap with provolone or Monterey Jack.) - ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
(Keeps the dish moist and flavorful while baking.) - Chopped fresh parsley (For garnish and a pop of color.)
Note: This recipe serves 4. Adjust ingredient quantities based on your desired serving size.
Variations
Make this dish your own with these customizable options:
- Dairy-Free: Swap mozzarella for a dairy-free melting cheese or omit entirely.
- Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium chicken broth and season sparingly.
- Additional Veggies: Add spinach or thin-sliced zucchini for extra greens.
- Flavor Twist: Mix a splash of white wine into the broth for added sophistication.
For a hearty twist, you might enjoy recipes like Mushroom Chicken that bring a rich, earthy flavor to your table.
Cooking Time
Making this dish is straightforward and quick! Here’s how long it takes:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment You Need
Gather these tools to make the process smooth and hassle-free:
- 9×13 baking dish: Perfect for holding and baking the chicken.
- Large skillet: For sautéing mushrooms and browning the chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate ingredient portions matter!
- Chef’s knife: For precise slicing of mushrooms and onions.
- Meat mallet: To pound the chicken evenly.
How to Make Baked Chicken with Mushrooms?
This dish involves easy steps with delicious results. Here’s exactly how I do it:
Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions
Start by heating a combination of butter and olive oil in a large skillet. Add the sliced mushrooms and onions, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook them until soft and golden, stirring occasionally. Set aside half of the mixture in a greased baking dish, keeping the rest for later.
Prepare and Brown the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear them in the skillet for about two minutes per side, just until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them through at this stage—we’re finishing them in the oven.
Create the Sauce
With the same skillet, pour in your chicken broth and scrape up any brown bits. This step infuses the broth with a savory punch. Allow the liquid to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors.
Assemble the Dish
Arrange the seared chicken over the mushroom and onion layer in the baking dish. Spoon the reserved mushroom mixture on top of the chicken, sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella, and pour the sauce evenly over everything.
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F. The cheese will be beautifully melted, creating an irresistible final presentation.
Credit: diethood
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Over time, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make this dish even more enjoyable. Here’s what works for me:
- Pound chicken evenly: Ensures consistent cooking and prevents dry spots.
- Don’t skimp on mushrooms: Their umami flavor really shines, so consider adding extra if you’re a fan.
- Avoid overcooking: Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness at 165°F.
- Fresh is best: Opt for freshly shredded cheese to avoid clumping.
How to Serve Baked Chicken with Mushrooms?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I love serving it over buttery mashed potatoes, which soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, place it alongside steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus. Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch that adds color and freshness. You can also enjoy similar creamy chicken dishes like Creamy Pesto Chicken for a comforting meal.
Nutritional Information
This meal is delicious and surprisingly balanced. Here’s what you get per serving:
- Calories: 327
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 18g
Make Ahead and Storage
Prepping ahead? No problem! Here’s what to do:
- Storage: Leftovers stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in short intervals.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this baked chicken with mushrooms will become a favorite in your home:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights with minimal prep and cleanup.
- Flavorful: Juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and gooey cheese combine wonderfully.
- Versatile: Works for casual dinners or special occasions alike.
- Customizable: Easily tweak for dietary needs or added flavors.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will appreciate the comforting, cheesy goodness.
This baked chicken with mushrooms recipe truly checks all the boxes. It’s quick, customizable, and, most importantly, delicious! Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds. For more creative chicken recipes, check out our collection of Chicken Recipes.