Tired of the same old chicken breast routine? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's quick to prepare? Then look no further! This baked chicken breast with mushrooms recipe is your answer. It's a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. This recipe delivers on taste and nutrition, making it a winner for healthy eating enthusiasts and busy families alike. Get ready to elevate your chicken game!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. This simple seasoning step significantly impacts the final flavor.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron works wonderfully!) over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown slightly. This develops a deeper, richer mushroom flavor.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Baking the Chicken:
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this adds extra deliciousness to your sauce.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the mushroom and onion mixture.
- Pour the lemon juice evenly over the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
Serving:
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this easy, delicious, and healthy meal!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add some heat: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom mixture for a spicy kick.
- Creamy variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer sauce.
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus to the skillet.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this dish with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 35-40g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's quick, delicious, and versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!