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!
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.