Some dinners stick with you long after the last bite. This cheesy baked chicken is one of those meals that wraps you in warmth and comfort without any fuss. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to pause, breathe in the aroma of melted cheese mingling with herbs, and savor every forkful.
I remember the first time I baked this chicken. The house smelled like a cozy Italian kitchen, the bubbling cheese topping golden and irresistible. As I pulled the pan from the oven, steam rose, carrying hints of garlic and fresh parsley. The crust of cheese crackled softly as I cut into the tender chicken beneath. The blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan created this perfect, gooey blanket that made each bite feel like a small celebration. It wasn’t just dinner—it was a moment to slow down and enjoy something simple yet special.
- Melts together three cheeses for a rich, savory topping.
- Ready in just over half an hour, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Herbs and garlic powder brighten up the flavors without overpowering.
- Tender chicken breasts that stay juicy and satisfying.
- Easy cleanup with a single baking sheet approach.
If you’re worried about balancing flavors or timing, this recipe is pretty forgiving. Even if you’re new to baking chicken, the cheese and seasoning make it hard to go wrong. It’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a little reward after a busy day.
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Cheesy Baked Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A delicious and easy cheesy baked chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a savory blend of melted cheese and herbs, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning.
Rub the olive oil evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
In a separate bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.
Top each chicken breast evenly with the cheese mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to thaw them completely before baking to ensure even cooking and juicy texture.
What if I want a crispier cheese topping?
Try broiling for the last 1–2 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Can I swap the cheeses?
Absolutely. Feel free to use your favorites like gouda or Monterey Jack, but keep a mix of melting cheeses for the best result.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat until warmed through.
Give this cheesy baked chicken a try next time you want an easy, satisfying dinner that feels homemade and cozy. You might just find it becoming your go-to comfort meal.