Introduction
This hearty and flavorful dish features juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with golden sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and a blanket of melted cheese. It’s the perfect combination of smoky, savory, and cheesy goodness. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp salad for a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work great)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
For the Cheese:
- 4 slices provolone, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese (your choice)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Rub both sides with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Optional: drizzle with Worcestershire sauce for extra smoky flavor.
- Let marinate for at least 15–30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Grill Method:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
- Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove and cover lightly with foil to rest.
Stovetop Method:
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
- Set aside and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Mushroom & Onion Topping
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly caramelized.
- Add mushrooms and cook another 5–7 minutes, until browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and thyme; cook for 1 more minute.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble and Melt the Cheese
- Place the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Spoon the mushroom and onion mixture evenly over each piece.
- Lay a slice of cheese on top of each chicken breast.
- Broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Chef’s Tips
- For extra richness, deglaze the mushroom-onion pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth before spooning over the chicken.
- Try using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a spicier kick.
- Want it creamy? Add a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese to the mushroom mixture.