Gratinated chicken breast with mushrooms

Gratinated chicken breast with mushrooms - a recipe that combines the tenderness of chicken with the rich flavors of mushrooms, culminating in a layer of melted cheese, perfect for a family meal or a dinner with friends. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for any cooking enthusiast, regardless of experience level. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 boneless chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 1 small jar of mushrooms (or 300 g fresh mushrooms)
- 1 large onion
- 1 cup of homemade tomato paste (approximately 200 g)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 3 tablespoons white wine
- 150 g grated cheese (preferably high-fat for perfect melting)

Step 1: Preparing the mushrooms

Start by washing the mushrooms (if using fresh mushrooms) and slicing them. If using jarred mushrooms, drain them well to remove excess liquid. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly soft, about 5 minutes. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and mix well.

Step 2: Cooking the mushroom mixture

Add enough water to cover the onion and mushroom mixture, then let it simmer over medium heat. Cover the skillet to help the mushrooms cook evenly. After about 10 minutes, add the tomato paste, white wine, salt, pepper, and dried basil. Let it simmer until the liquid reduces and the mushrooms become tender, about 10-15 minutes. This mixture will add a deep flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Preparing the chicken breast

Meanwhile, wash the chicken breast and cut it into equal-sized pieces, then pound each piece with a meat mallet to make them thinner and more tender. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, sweet paprika, crushed garlic, and dried parsley. Coat each piece of chicken with this spice mixture, ensuring they are evenly covered.

Step 4: Searing and assembling

In a heated grill pan, sear the chicken breast on both sides, about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden. Transfer the chicken pieces to a greased baking dish with a teaspoon of butter. On top of the chicken, add the previously cooked mushroom mixture, then sprinkle the grated cheese on top. This will become delicious and golden during baking.

Step 5: Baking

Add 5-6 tablespoons of water to the dish with chicken and mushrooms to prevent drying out. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the dish inside for about 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and turns a golden, appetizing color.

Step 6: Serving

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an extra splash of color and flavor. You can serve this dish alongside a fresh salad or pickles, which will balance the rich flavors of the chicken and mushrooms. It is also delicious and simple, perfect for a quick meal during the week.

Practical tip

If you want to add a personal touch to this dish, you can try incorporating other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, into the mushroom mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese - mozzarella or a mix of cheeses will bring a unique flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This gratinated chicken breast with mushrooms recipe is an excellent source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle and overall health. Mushrooms provide fiber and antioxidants, contributing to healthy digestion. The olive oil used in the preparation is a healthy fat, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, essential for heart health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen mushrooms?
Yes, frozen mushrooms are an excellent option, but make sure to fully defrost and drain them before use.

2. What kind of wine should I use?
A dry white wine is ideal, but you can also use red wine if you prefer. The important thing is to use a wine you would like to drink.

3. How can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

4. What type of salad pairs best?
A simple green salad with cherry tomatoes and a lemon and olive oil dressing is perfect to complement this dish.

This gratinated chicken breast with mushrooms recipe can easily become a favorite in your home, thanks to its simplicity and rich flavor. By experimenting with the ingredients, you will discover new and delicious combinations that will delight the taste buds of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 boneless chicken breast, 1 small jar of mushrooms, 1 onion, 1 cup of homemade tomato paste, salt, pepper, sweet paprika, 1 clove of garlic, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, fresh parsley, 4 tablespoons of oil, 1 teaspoon of butter, 3 tablespoons of wine, 150 g of cheese.