Name: Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise); Salt & pepper (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Flour (for dredging); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter (divided); 7 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced); 1/2 cup marsala; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded mozzarella; 2 scallions (chopped)

Introduction to Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe

If you’re a young professional juggling a busy schedule, the Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe could become your new weeknight favorite. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy sauce that’s sure to impress your palate without demanding too much of your time. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal, making it a fantastic option for a cozy dinner after a long day at work.

Not only is this recipe quick, but it’s also incredibly flexible. You can easily wish away any leftover chicken or veggies from the fridge, making it a savvy choice for those seeking to minimize food waste. Moreover, with simple ingredients like chicken broth, mozzarella, and scallions, the recipe keeps your grocery list short and manageable.

For those who appreciate a blend of flavors, the rich taste of sautéed mushrooms combined with melted cheese creates a satisfying dish that will keep you coming back for more. You’ll find that this Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe is an approachable way to showcase your culinary skills, impressing friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Check out more quick recipes over at Joy of Cooking for ideas that complement this delectable dish!

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe

Creating the Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe is simple and satisfying! Let’s gather what you need for this delicious dish.

Essential Ingredients to Get Started

To kick off your cooking adventure, make sure you have these foundational ingredients on hand:

2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
Salt & pepper (to taste)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Flour (for dredging)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter (divided)
7 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
½ cup marsala substitute (like apple cider or grape juice)
¼ cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella
2 scallions (chopped)

These ingredients will set you up for a delightful meal that’s packed with flavor.

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor

Feel free to amp up the flavor with these optional add-ins:

Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish
Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy layer

Adding these optional ingredients can take your Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe to the next level, enhancing both taste and presentation. Enjoy your cooking!

Step-by-step preparation of Easy Chicken Lombardy

Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it's heating up, take your two large chicken breasts and cut them in half lengthwise, giving you four thinner cutlets. This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and quickly. Season each piece of chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder to infuse flavor. To coat the chicken, dredge each cutlet in flour, which will help create a nice, golden crust when you sauté them.

Step 2: Sauté the mushrooms
In a large oven-proof skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil along with one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add your chicken cutlets and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are beautifully golden brown. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate. In the same skillet, add the remaining two tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Toss in a generous 7 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms and sauté them, stirring occasionally. Expect them to brown and become fragrant in about 5-6 minutes. You can read more about the benefits of mushrooms here.

Step 3: Create the sauce with chicken broth
After the mushrooms have sautéed to perfection, pour in ½ a cup of marsala and ¼ cup of chicken broth into the skillet. Allow the mixture to bubble for about a minute, which will help develop the rich flavors of your sauce. This step is crucial as it ties all the flavors together, creating a comforting sauce that perfectly complements the chicken.

Step 4: Combine chicken and sauce
Now it’s time to bring back your chicken to the party! Gently place the chicken cutlets back into the skillet, allowing them to soak in that luscious sauce for about a minute. Use a spoon to ladle some sauce and mushrooms over the chicken, ensuring they get a generous coating.

Step 5: Add cheese and bake
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Don't forget to add the chopped scallions for that final touch of freshness and flavor. Now, place the skillet in your preheated oven and bake for about 7 minutes. If you love a bubbly, golden topping, consider putting it under the broiler for a few extra minutes at the end. Serve your Easy Chicken Lombardy right away—this dish is bound to impress friends and family!

With its rich flavor and comforting cheese topping, this Easy Chicken Lombardy recipe is a delightful twist on tradition. Enjoy cooking this delicious dish, and watch it become a favorite in your home!

Variations on Easy Chicken Lombardy

Easy Chicken Lombardy with Different Cheeses

Experimenting with cheeses can elevate your Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe to a new level! Try swapping out the mozzarella for alternative options like provolone, fresh burrata, or creamy goat cheese. Each offers a unique flavor profile that complements the dish beautifully while still delivering that satisfying cheesiness we all crave. You might even consider mixing different cheeses for a delightful twist!

Healthy Twists on Chicken Lombardy

If you’re looking for a healthier take on Chicken Lombardy, there are simple adjustments you can make. For a lighter version, opt for skinless chicken breasts and substitute butter with olive oil. Incorporate veggies like spinach or zucchini alongside the mushrooms to add nutrients and fiber without sacrificing flavor. You can also serve it over quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional sides for a wholesome meal.

For more variations and tips, check out Healthline for nutritious cooking ideas!

Cooking tips and notes for Easy Chicken Lombardy

Tips for perfecting the chicken

To achieve the juiciest chicken in your Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe, be sure to cut your chicken breasts in half lengthwise, creating thinner cutlets. This not only helps them cook faster but ensures they remain moist. Season generously with salt and pepper, and don’t skimp on the flour dredging—it creates a lovely crust that locks in flavor.

Notes on cooking methods

Using an oven-proof skillet is key for seamless cooking; it allows you to easily transfer from stovetop to oven. If you don’t have one, simply transfer the mixture to a baking dish before sprinkling with mozzarella and scallions. And remember, broiling for the last few minutes can give that extra golden finish to your dish!

Happy cooking! If you’re looking for more tips on perfecting chicken dishes, check out this guide for expert insights.

Serving suggestions for Easy Chicken Lombardy

Best side dishes to complement your meal

Pairing your Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe with the right side dishes can elevate the meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes soak up the savory mushroom sauce beautifully.
Steamed Asparagus: The slight crunch and vibrant color provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Simple Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a crisp, refreshing side.

Creative plating ideas

Presentation makes a meal memorable! Consider these plating tips to impress your guests:

Layering: Place a scoop of garlic mashed potatoes on one side, topped with the chicken, and drizzle the mushroom sauce over it.
Garnish: Sprinkle additional chopped scallions or a few sprigs of fresh parsley on top for a splash of color.
Use of Plates: Choose wide-rimmed plates that allow space for the sauce, creating a beautiful contrast with the chicken.

With these serving suggestions, your Easy Chicken Lombardy will not only taste divine but also look restaurant-worthy! Happy cooking!

Time breakdown for Easy Chicken Lombardy

When you're short on time but want something delicious, this Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe has got your back! Here’s how to plan your cooking:

Preparation time

Spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready. From cutting the chicken to measuring out your ingredients, you'll be prepped in no time!

Cooking time

The cooking process takes 20 minutes. You'll be searing the chicken and making that scrumptious sauce!

Total time

In just 30 minutes, you'll have a comforting, cheesy Chicken Lombardy ready to impress your friends or family. It's quick, satisfying, and simply tasty!

For more amazing meal ideas, check out Serious Eats for tips on meal prepping!

Nutritional facts for Easy Chicken Lombardy

Calories

This Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe packs a satisfying punch with approximately 389 calories per serving. Perfect for a hearty meal without the guilt!

Protein

With around 32 grams of protein, this dish is an excellent choice for those looking to boost their daily intake. Ideal for post-workout recovery, it helps in building and repairing muscles.

Sodium

Be mindful of the 442 mg of sodium in each serving. While it adds flavor, you might want to adjust seasoning based on dietary needs. Consider using low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier twist!

For more nutritional insights, check out the USDA's FoodData Central or Healthline's nutrition articles for general tips on balanced meals.

FAQs about Easy Chicken Lombardy

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, don't fret! You can easily substitute it with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or beef broth for a richer taste. Both options will keep the dish delicious. Alternatively, if you're in a pinch, mixing water with a splash of soy sauce can work, enhancing the umami profile of your Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe.

How can I make Chicken Lombardy ahead of time?

Planning for a dinner party or a busy week? You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance! Cook the chicken and mushrooms, then allow them to cool before storing them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble and bake. This will save you time and still deliver that incredible flavor to your guests!

Any tips for a creamier sauce?

For an even creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving. This not only adds richness but also balances the flavors. You could also sauté some finely chopped cream cheese with the mushrooms for a decadent twist. Your Easy Chicken Lombardy will take on a delightful, velvety texture that's hard to resist!

For even more amazing chicken recipes, check out Taste of Home or AllRecipes.

Conclusion on Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe

In just 30 minutes, the Easy Chicken Lombardy Recipe transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent dish bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this cheesy delight is sure to impress! Enjoy it with a side of veggies or pasta for a complete meal. Happy cooking!