Ingredients

• 2 chicken fillets
• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chicken seasoning (optional)
• 150 g (5 oz) yellow cheese, grated
• 8 mushrooms, sliced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 heaping tablespoons tomato puree
• 1/2 cup 30% cream
• Chives, chopped, for garnish

Steps to Make Cheesy Chicken with Mushrooms and Creamy Tomato Sauce

1. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
   • Cut the chicken fillets into bite-sized pieces or strips.
   • In a bowl, coat the chicken with olive oil, sweet paprika, salt, black pepper, and chicken seasoning if desired.
   • Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil.
   • Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown on each side, about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Set the chicken aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the red onion until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms and diced bell pepper, cooking until the mushrooms are golden brown and the peppers are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce:
   • Add the tomato puree to the skillet, stirring it with the vegetables.
   • Pour in the 30% cream, stirring to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Add Cheese:
   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken to coat it.
   • Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top.
   • Serve hot with rice, pasta, or crusty bread. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Sugar: 4 g
  

  Dish Overview

  This dish centers around seared chicken breasts nestled in a creamy, tangy tomato sauce loaded with mushrooms and topped with melted cheese. It’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that brings warmth to any meal, ideal for cozy family dinners or entertaining.

  Ingredients and Preparation

  The primary components of this recipe include chicken, mushrooms, cheese, and a creamy tomato sauce. Here’s a breakdown of each element:

  Core Ingredients

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are seasoned and seared until golden, locking in flavor while keeping the meat tender.
  • Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add an earthy, umami depth to the sauce, complementing the richness of the cream and cheese.
  • Tomato Sauce: Adds a tangy base, balanced with the cream for a velvety, mildly sweet sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides a luscious, creamy texture that melds beautifully with the tomato sauce.
  • Cheese: Mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend of both creates a melted, cheesy topping that brings all the flavors together.

  Seasonings and Optional Additions

  • Garlic: Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor.
  • Italian Seasoning: Adds herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, giving the sauce a classic Italian flavor.
  • Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings for balance.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a bit of heat if you prefer a slight kick.

  Cooking Steps

  1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken breasts. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté sliced mushrooms until they are golden and tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  3. Create the Creamy Tomato Sauce: Add tomato sauce to the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic, stirring to combine. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Return Chicken to the Skillet and Add Cheese: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Sprinkle grated mozzarella, Parmesan, or both on top of each chicken breast.
  5. Simmer and Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet and let it cook on low for about 5-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

  Serving Suggestions

  This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with:

  • Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or fettuccine to enjoy the sauce.
  • Rice: For a comforting meal, spoon the chicken and sauce over rice.
  • Crusty Bread: Use bread to soak up the creamy, cheesy sauce.

  Nutritional Benefits

  • Chicken: A great source of lean protein, low in fat when using skinless breasts.
  • Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, and minerals like selenium.
  • Tomato Sauce: Provides lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health.

  Tips for Success

  • Avoid Overcooking: Check the chicken’s temperature to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
  • Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances the flavor.
  • Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer or add a touch more cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, mozzarella or gouda can work well, giving a creamy texture.
2. Can I substitute the cream for a lighter option? You can use half-and-half or a lower-fat cream, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
3. What other vegetables can I add? Spinach or zucchini would be great additions, adding color and nutrients.
4. How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of fillets? Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Chicken with Mushrooms and Creamy Tomato Sauce

1. Season the Chicken Well: Good seasoning enhances the overall flavor, so don’t skip the spices.
2. Cook the Vegetables Properly: Allow the mushrooms to brown nicely; this deepens the flavor of the sauce.
3. Add the Cheese Gradually: Adding cheese at the end helps it melt beautifully and gives the sauce a creamy texture.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Letting the sauce simmer for a few minutes thickens it and blends the flavors.
5. Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Chives or parsley add a bright, fresh note to balance the creamy sauce.

Storage Tips

• In the Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat to avoid curdling.
• In the Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken with Mushrooms and Creamy Tomato Sauce is a rich and comforting dish, perfect for cozy meals or family dinners. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese creates a satisfying flavor that pairs well with simple sides. With its layers of textures and flavors, this dish is sure to be a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of each bite in this easy, elegant recipe!