Next, I toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, letting them cook until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, and if you could smell my kitchen right now! It’s like a warm hug. After that, I pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together and bringing it to a gentle simmer. This creamy sauce is what takes the dish to the next level, trust me!
Now, it’s time to assemble everything. In your baking dish, lay down the seasoned chicken breasts and pour the rich mushroom sauce over them, making sure they’re well-coated. I like to sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top for that extra meltiness. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through without drying out.
After 25 minutes, I remove the foil to let that cheese get wonderfully bubbly and golden. I bake for another 10-15 minutes, and this is when the magic happens! The smell wafting from the oven is simply irresistible and has everyone gathering around the kitchen. Once the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s ready to come out. I always let it rest for a few minutes before serving, garnishing with fresh parsley for that touch of color and flavor.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I found through many trials that using fresh mushrooms rather than canned makes a world of difference in flavor and texture. Fresh mushrooms add that wonderful umami punch that you just can’t get from the canned version. I tested this three ways—trust me, the fresh ones win every time!
Another personal tip: don’t skip the resting period after baking. Allowing your chicken to rest for a few minutes lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. If you dive in too quickly, you might end up with dry chicken, and we definitely don’t want that!
Lastly, I love to sprinkle a bit of extra parmesan cheese on top right before it finishes baking. The combination of mozzarella and parmesan creates an irresistible cheesy crust that adds extra flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made the first few times was overcooking the chicken. The key is to keep an eye on the internal temperature. Using a meat thermometer is a game-changer, ensuring that your chicken is perfectly cooked without becoming dry. (See the next page below to continue…)