1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, tomato paste, mustard, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken fillets with this marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
Slice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the chili peppers, and slice the mushrooms. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and sliced chili peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and any moisture has evaporated. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sear the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add a small amount of butter over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken fillets for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage as they will finish cooking in the oven.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a baking dish, spread out the sautéed vegetables evenly. Place the seared chicken fillets on top of the vegetables.
Sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the chicken fillets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Possible Questions:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of fillets?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can add extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through compared to fillets.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the dish just before baking. Alternatively, you can bake it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a low-carb option, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a cauliflower rice.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite cheese or a mix of cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda. Each will add a unique flavor to the dish.
Cooking Tips:
Marination: For best results, marinate the chicken fillets for at least 15 minutes, or even overnight if you have time. This will enhance the flavors.
Searing: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken; this allows for a better sear and prevents steaming.
Vegetables: Ensure the vegetables are well-cooked before baking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):
Calories: Approximately 350
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Conclusion:
This Chicken Fillet with Mushrooms, Onions, and Cheese is an easy-to-make, flavorful dinner that’s sure to please everyone at your table. With its rich combination of savory flavors and gooey cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t require a lot of prep time. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with family, this dish delivers on both taste and convenience. Enjoy this comforting meal and savor every bite!
