Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake

Looking for an easy and delicious chicken bake recipe? Look no further than our Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for any family dinner and is guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Our Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake features tender chicken breasts smothered in fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped artichokes, tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired dish that you can whip up in no time, with just 15 minutes of prep and 30 to 40 minutes of baking.

To make this delightful chicken bake, start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and Italian seasoning. Then, bake them uncovered in a greased baking dish at 375°F for 15 minutes. While the chicken is baking, prepare a flavorful mixture of chopped artichoke hearts, basil, tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

After the initial 15 minutes of baking, remove the chicken from the oven and top it with the artichoke mixture and sliced fresh mozzarella cheese. Pop it back in the oven for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melty and golden.

Serve the Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake as is for a satisfying meal, or consider serving it over cooked spinach or rice. The pan juices can be poured over the chicken and the spinach or rice for added flavor. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking.

Key Takeaways:

• Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake is an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
• It features chicken breasts smothered in fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped artichokes, tomatoes, and fresh basil.
• The chicken is seasoned with salt and Italian seasoning, then baked for 15 minutes.
• Afterward, a mixture of chopped artichoke hearts, basil, tomato, garlic, and Parmesan cheese is added to the chicken, and it’s baked for another 15 to 20 minutes.
• The dish can be served as is or over cooked spinach or rice.

To make this Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts (1.8 to 2 lb total)
• Salt
• Italian seasoning
• Butter
• 14 oz artichoke hearts
• ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)
• 1 roma tomato (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)

The chicken breasts are seasoned with salt and Italian seasoning on both sides and baked in a greased baking dish at 375°F for 15 minutes. While the chicken is baking, the artichoke mixture is prepared by combining chopped artichoke hearts, basil, tomato, minced garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese. After the initial 15 minutes of baking, the artichoke mixture and sliced mozzarella cheese are added to the chicken, and it is baked for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through. The dish can be served as is or over cooked spinach or rice.

Here’s a visual representation of the ingredients:

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start creating this delicious Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake!

In addition to serving the Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake as is, you can also consider serving it over cooked spinach or rice. The pan juices can be used to pour over the chicken and the cooked spinach or rice, adding extra flavor. This dish can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with a side salad or vegetable for a complete and satisfying dinner. The combination of flavors from the basil, artichoke, and mozzarella make this chicken bake a delightful and filling option for any occasion.

This Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake recipe offers flexibility for customization, allowing you to tailor it to suit your preferences. Here are some variations and tips to consider:

1. Add a little heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, incorporate red pepper flakes or chili powder into the seasoning blend. Just a touch of these spices can add an extra kick of flavor to your chicken bake.
2. Cheese swaps: While the recipe calls for fresh mozzarella cheese, feel free to experiment with different types of melting cheese. Shredded mozzarella or other alternatives can bring their own distinct flavors to the dish.
3. Enhance with balsamic glaze: For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the chicken bake before serving. The tangy sweetness of the glaze can elevate the dish and add a delightful finishing touch.

It’s important to note that while the nutritional information provided is an estimate, the actual values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. To ensure easy removal of the chicken from the baking dish, it is recommended to grease the dish with butter, preventing any sticking or difficulties in serving.

In conclusion, our Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake is a simple and flavorful dish that will surely become a favorite among your family and friends. The combination of basil, artichoke, mozzarella, and other ingredients creates a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that is both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, this chicken bake is the perfect choice.

With its minimal prep time and easy-to-follow instructions, our Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake is a convenient option for busy households. The savory flavors and aromatic herbs will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the sunny Mediterranean coast. You can serve it as is, allowing the vibrant flavors to shine through, or pair it with cooked spinach or rice for a more substantial meal.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to indulge in the delightful combination of baked chicken, fresh basil, and artichokes. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a wholesome and nutritious option for your dinner table. Explore the world of flavors and elevate your cooking repertoire with our Basil Artichoke Chicken Bake. Try it today and discover the joy of creating delicious and memorable meals for your loved ones.