Chicken breast in cheese crust

Chicken breast in cheese crust - a quick and delicious recipe

If you are looking for a simple yet tasty dish, chicken breast in cheese crust is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken meat with the rich flavors of garlic and onion, all topped with a crispy cheese crust. Additionally, it cooks quickly, making it ideal for family meals or a special dinner. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 150 ml broth (preferably tomato)
- 120 g grated cheese
- 5 tablespoons margarine or butter
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the chicken breast in cheese crust

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the chicken breast is boneless and cleaned of any membranes. Chop the onion finely, and crush the garlic using a garlic press.

2. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius while you prepare the rest of the dish.

3. Preparing the baking tray: Melt the 5 tablespoons of margarine or butter and pour it into a baking tray, ensuring it is evenly covered. This step will help the chicken breast cook evenly and become beautifully browned.

4. Seasoning the chicken breast: Brush each piece of chicken breast with the melted margarine, making sure they are well coated on both sides. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. These simple seasonings are essential to bring the flavors of the meat to life.

5. Preparing the flavorful sauce: In a bowl, mix the finely chopped onion with the crushed garlic, broth, salt, and pepper. This sauce will add extra flavor to the chicken breast. Use a spoon to evenly distribute the mixture over each piece of meat.

6. Baking in the oven: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the chicken breast bake for 25 minutes. The aroma that will fill the kitchen is simply irresistible!

7. Adding the cheese: After 25 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and generously sprinkle the grated cheese over each piece of breast. Put the tray back in the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese becomes golden and crispy.

8. Serving: Once the chicken breast is ready, let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it warm, alongside creamy mashed potatoes, which will perfectly complement the rich flavor of the dish. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips:
- To achieve a juicier chicken breast, let it marinate for an hour in olive oil, salt, and your preferred spices.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a meat-free alternative, replace the chicken breast with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini.
- Proportions: If you want to cook more servings, it's easy to adjust! Use equal proportions for all ingredients.

Nutritional information:
This chicken breast in cheese crust recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 6g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or any other type of cheese that melts well.
2. What other sides go well with this dish? Besides mashed potatoes, a mix of grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad can perfectly complement the meal.
3. How do I store leftovers? Any leftover chicken breast can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

Don't forget to experiment with spices! You can add herbs like oregano or rosemary to customize this recipe. I hope you enjoy every bite of this delicious chicken breast in cheese crust. Bon appétit!