Chicken Beaten

Beaten Chicken with Onion and Cheese: A Tasty Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I will share with you a delicious recipe for beaten chicken, inspired by culinary traditions, that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of warmth to any meal. This simple and tasty recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a party. Let's get to work!

Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Necessary Ingredients
- 5 pieces of chicken breast (approximately 500-600 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 200 g grated cheese
- 3-4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried or fresh basil, for added flavor

A Bit of History
Beaten chicken is a recipe that combines elements from various culinary traditions, based on the technique of beating the meat to make it more tender. This method has been used throughout history to achieve juicy and flavorful dishes. Adding ingredients like onion and cheese transforms this dish into a true feast.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken breast. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the pieces of chicken so they flatten evenly. This step not only helps tenderize the meat but also ensures even cooking. Season each piece with salt, pepper, and chicken spices if you want a more intense flavor.

2. Preparing the Tray
Line a tray with aluminum foil and grease it with a little oil to prevent sticking. This will also make cleaning the tray easier later.

3. Onion and Marinating
Chop the onion finely and marinate it in lemon juice. This will not only intensify its flavor but also add a note of freshness to the dish. Spread the marinated onion evenly over the pieces of chicken.

4. Adding the Bell Pepper
Cut the red bell pepper into small cubes and distribute it over the onion. The bell pepper will not only add color but also a pleasant crunchy texture.

5. Mayonnaise and Cheese
Spread everything with mayonnaise, which will add delicious creaminess. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top. It will melt and form a golden and appetizing crust during baking.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray inside. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is browned. Check if the chicken is well done by cutting a piece to ensure the juices run clear.

Serving the Dish
After removing the tray from the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm, alongside boiled potatoes with butter, a side that perfectly complements this recipe. For an extra flavor boost, drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with fresh basil.

Practical Tips
- Spacing the Pieces: Make sure the pieces of chicken are spaced out on the tray to bake evenly. This step will help you achieve a more browned and crispy chicken.
- Variations: You can try replacing the cheese with feta or mozzarella for a different taste. Additionally, adding chopped black or green olives can give a Mediterranean touch to the dish.
- Replacing Mayonnaise: If you want a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can the dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked beaten chicken, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to preserve the texture and flavor.

2. What are the nutritional benefits of this dish?
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and adding vegetables like onion and bell pepper brings essential fiber and vitamins.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade are excellent choices to accompany this meal.

4. How can I make the chicken spicier?
You can add a little chopped hot pepper or chili sauce to the mayonnaise for an extra kick.

This recipe for beaten chicken with onion and cheese will surely bring smiles to the table. Whether you prepare it for a weekend dinner or a special occasion, you are about to create a memorable dish. I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!