Name: Cheese Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or 2 oz cream cheese (for sauce); Optional: Fresh parsley or chopped chives, for garnish

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheese Chicken is the perfect blend of simplicity and comfort. It’s quick to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and bakes up beautifully with a golden, bubbly cheese topping. The chicken stays moist and flavorful, while the cheese adds richness and depth. Whether you’re feeding kids or craving something cozy, this cheesy chicken dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Paprika
Olive oil or butter
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix)
Grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: heavy cream or cream cheese (for sauce)
Fresh parsley or chopped chives (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked).
If making a cheese sauce, reduce heat and stir in cream or cream cheese, and cook until smooth. Add a handful of shredded cheese and stir until melted. Return chicken to the pan.
If not using a sauce, simply sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the seared chicken.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, richer version.
Add cooked bacon or sliced tomatoes under the cheese for extra layers of flavor.
Use pepper jack or provolone for a different cheesy twist.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the skillet before baking.
Turn it into a casserole by layering with cooked pasta and extra cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or in the microwave until hot, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
This dish can also be frozen—cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What cheese works best for Cheese Chicken?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, while cheddar adds sharpness. A combination of cheeses offers the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything in the skillet or baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as you avoid using flour or breadcrumbs, it’s low in carbs and keto-friendly.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just reduce the baking time to warm the chicken and melt the cheese without overcooking.

What sides go well with Cheese Chicken?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad are all great options.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer and let it rest after baking to keep it juicy.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions to the skillet before baking.

What’s the best way to melt cheese evenly?

Use freshly shredded cheese, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Can I make it spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes, use pepper jack cheese, or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook seasoned chicken in the slow cooker on LOW for 4–5 hours, then add shredded cheese in the last 15–20 minutes to melt.

Conclusion

Cheese Chicken is a rich, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and hard to resist. With its gooey, melted cheese and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a guaranteed hit for any meal. Whether you’re keeping it simple or dressing it up with sauce and add-ins, this recipe is endlessly adaptable and always delicious.

Cheese Chicken

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Cheese Chicken is a comforting and easy dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped or baked in rich, melty cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy meals, it’s a versatile recipe that combines bold flavor with simple ingredients.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden (does not need to be fully cooked).
If making a cheese sauce: reduce heat, add cream or cream cheese and stir until smooth. Add a handful of shredded cheese and stir to melt. Return chicken to pan.
If not using sauce: sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the chicken in the skillet.
Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp) and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and flavor.
Chicken thighs can be used for a richer alternative.
Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Turn into a casserole by layering with cooked pasta before baking.
Resting after baking helps retain the chicken’s juices.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with cheese
Calories: 410
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 125mg