1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season: Season the chicken fillets with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
- Cook: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken fillets and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Mushroom and Onion Mixture:
- Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Sauté the sliced onions over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic and dried thyme or rosemary. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze (Optional): If using white wine or chicken broth, pour it into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook until the liquid has reduced slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season: Season the mushroom and onion mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Top Chicken: Place the cooked chicken fillets in a baking dish. Spoon the mushroom and onion mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top of the mushroom mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is heated through.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the dish if desired.
- Serve: Serve the chicken fillets hot, straight from the oven. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
Tips for Success:
- Chicken Thickness: If your chicken fillets are particularly thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Mushroom Varieties: Experiment with different types of mushrooms for varied flavors and textures.
- Cheese Choice: Use your favorite melting cheese for the best results. A combination of cheeses can add depth and richness.
Variations:
- Creamy Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream to the mushroom mixture before baking for a richer, creamier topping.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
This Chicken Fillet with Mushrooms, Onions, and Cheese recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy every bite of this comforting and satisfying meal!