Chicken breast with cheese

Chicken breast with cheese - a delicious and simple dish, perfect for a quick and tasty dinner. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken breast with the creaminess of cheese, resulting in a dish that will delight the whole family.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 3 pieces of chicken breast (approximately 600 g)
- 200 g cheese (choose a creamy cheese, like mozzarella or a smoked cheese for a stronger flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (optional, for an extra flavor)
- A bunch of fresh parsley (for decoration)

Preparation:
1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Rinse the chicken breast well under cold running water and dry it with a paper towel. This will help achieve a crispy crust during baking.

2. Each piece of chicken breast will be cut in half, creating smaller and easier-to-cook portions. The cut can be made horizontally, ensuring not to cut all the way through, forming a kind of 'book' that can be filled.

3. In a bowl, season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and, if desired, sweet paprika. These spices will enhance the flavor of the chicken pieces. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

4. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. While the oven is heating, take a baking dish and grease it with a tablespoon of olive oil. The oil will help prevent the meat from sticking to the dish and will contribute to a tasty crust.

5. Place the chicken breast in the baking dish, cut side up. This is the perfect time to add the cheese. You can use thin slices or grate the cheese, covering each piece of chicken with a generous amount.

6. Before placing the dish in the oven, pour the remaining olive oil over the meat to maintain juiciness.

7. Bake the chicken breast in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is well cooked and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. It is important to check if the breast is fully cooked using a kitchen thermometer - the internal temperature should be 75 degrees Celsius.

8. Finally, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This step allows the juices in the meat to redistribute, making the chicken breast even juicier.

9. Serve the chicken breast with cheese alongside a fresh salad or mashed potatoes. A side of grilled vegetables will perfectly complement this dish. You can decorate the plate with freshly chopped parsley for a more appealing look.

Possible variations:
If you want to personalize the recipe, you can add various ingredients between the layer of chicken and cheese. For example, slices of tomatoes, olives, or sautéed mushrooms can add extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese - gouda, cheddar, or feta cheese for a different taste.

This chicken breast with cheese recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile, allowing you to play with ingredients and find the perfect combination to suit your tastes. Prepare this delicious dish on your family night and enjoy an unforgettable culinary moment!