Lightly Smothered Chicken

Have you ever craved a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug? That’s how I feel about Lightly Smothered Chicken. This dish is my go-to when I want something satisfying yet simple. Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you want to whip up something quick that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The combination of juicy grilled chicken topped with sautéed vegetables and melted cheese makes this meal a family favorite. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled the kitchen, and my family’s eyes lit up with anticipation. Every bite is a celebration of flavors, and it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand.

What You Need for Lightly Smothered Chicken

The ingredients for Lightly Smothered Chicken work together in perfect harmony. The core components include tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich layer of cheese that elevates the entire dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, and when combined, they create a meal that’s full of flavor and satisfaction.

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast tenders, grilled or pan sautéed – The star of the dish, these chicken tenders are tender and juicy, providing a perfect base for the toppings.
• 2 teaspoons olive oil – Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding a hint of richness and necessary fat.
• 8 ounces mushrooms, thinly sliced – They add a delightful umami flavor and a meaty texture to the dish.
• 1 green or red bell pepper, thinly sliced – Provides a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must for any savory dish, it infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon oregano – This herb brings a fragrant, slightly bitter note that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon honey – Balances the tanginess of the mustard and adds a hint of sweetness.
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully over the chicken and vegetables, creating a delicious finishing touch.

How to Prepare Lightly Smothered Chicken

Getting ready to cook Lightly Smothered Chicken is simple and straightforward. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Let’s dive right into the cooking process!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This is important as it ensures that your cheese will melt beautifully and the dish cooks evenly. While the oven heats, you can prepare your ingredients.
2. Set a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. As the oil heats, you’ll notice it shimmering, which means it’s ready for the next step.
3. When the oil is hot, add the green peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Sauté these vegetables for about five to seven minutes until they’re softened and slightly caramelized. The aroma will be mouthwatering!
4. Next, add the minced garlic, oregano, and a pinch of Kosher salt and pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for an additional one to two minutes. You’ll want to see the garlic become fragrant but not burnt.
5. Once your vegetables are ready, set them aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and honey. This mixture will give a wonderful tangy-sweet flavor that will emerge beautifully in the dish.
6. In an 8×8 inch pan, arrange your grilled or sautéed chicken tenders. Slather them evenly with the honey-Dijon mixture, making sure each piece is coated. This is where the magic begins!
7. Cover the chicken with the sautéed vegetables from the skillet, spreading them evenly over the top. This layering method not only looks appealing but also ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
8. Sprinkle the reduced-fat mozzarella cheese generously over the vegetable layer. The cheese will melt and hold everything together, creating a delightful gooey topping.
9. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about ten minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning!
10. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. Enjoy your delicious Lightly Smothered Chicken!

Make It Your Own

Every dish can be personalized, and Lightly Smothered Chicken is no exception. Here are some fantastic ideas to make it uniquely yours.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the cheesy goodness.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before baking. Just assemble the layers and cover tightly. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Make it Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the vegetable mix for a spicy twist.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish over rice or pasta for a hearty meal or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.

Pairing Suggestions for Lightly Smothered Chicken

Pairing your delicious Lightly Smothered Chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Here are some wonderful ideas:

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken perfectly.
• Steamed Broccoli: The subtle bitterness of steamed broccoli balances the dish, making it a nutritious choice.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a comforting, hearty meal experience.
• Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf can be a great base, soaking up all the delicious juices from the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables with a bit of olive oil and seasoning adds another delicious layer to your meal.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Lightly Smothered Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors that makes every bite special. Its simplicity and versatility make it a must-try for any home cook. I encourage you to give it a shot; I’m sure it will become a favorite in your household as it has in mine.

Lightly Smothered Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Lightly Smothered Chicken is an easy weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese. It's full of flavor, healthy, and perfect for those busy evenings. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• 12-inch Non-Stick Skillet
• 8×8 Pyrex (2 quart) glass dish

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast tenders grilled or pan sautéed
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 8 ounces mushrooms thinly sliced
• 1 green or red bell pepper thinly sliced
• 1 large yellow onion sliced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat mozzarella cheese

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This is important as it ensures that your cheese will melt beautifully and the dish cooks evenly. While the oven heats, you can prepare your ingredients.
• Set a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. As the oil heats, you’ll notice it shimmering, which means it’s ready for the next step.
• When the oil is hot, add the green peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Sauté these vegetables for about five to seven minutes until they’re softened and slightly caramelized. The aroma will be mouthwatering!
• Next, add the minced garlic, oregano, and a pinch of Kosher salt and pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for an additional one to two minutes. You’ll want to see the garlic become fragrant but not burnt.
• Once your vegetables are ready, set them aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and honey. This mixture will give a wonderful tangy-sweet flavor that will emerge beautifully in the dish.
• In an 8×8 inch pan, arrange your grilled or sautéed chicken tenders. Slather them evenly with the honey-Dijon mixture, making sure each piece is coated. This is where the magic begins!
• Cover the chicken with the sautéed vegetables from the skillet, spreading them evenly over the top. This layering method not only looks appealing but also ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
• Sprinkle the reduced-fat mozzarella cheese generously over the vegetable layer. The cheese will melt and hold everything together, creating a delightful gooey topping.
• Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about ten minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning!
• Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. Enjoy your delicious Lightly Smothered Chicken!

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the cheesy goodness.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish before baking. Just assemble the layers and cover tightly. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the vegetable mix for a spicy twist.
• Tip 5: Serve this dish over rice or pasta for a hearty meal or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.

Keyword chicken with vegetables, easy chicken dinner, Healthy Chicken Recipes, Lightly Smothered Chicken recipe

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.