Chicken Modiga
Chicken Modiga features tender chicken breasts in a rich mushroom and lemon sauce, layered with cheese and seasoned breading, ideal for comforting dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 2 (6-8 oz) skinned, boned chicken breasts ⓘ
- 1 cup Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups chicken stock ⓘ
- 3/4 cup thinly sliced fresh mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons chopped prosciutto ⓘ
- Juice of 1/2 lemon ⓘ
- 1/4 cup dry white wine ⓘ
- 8 oz shredded Provel cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a saucepan; set aside.
- Cut the remaining 1/2 cup of butter in half.
- Put the butter and flour in a mixing bowl.
- Mash with a fork to make a creamy mixture.
- Set aside.
- Cut each chicken breast in half to make 4 pieces.
- Wash chicken and drain off excess water.
- Dredge chicken in bread crumbs.
- Using a pastry brush, brush the reserved melted butter on the chicken to moisten the bread crumbs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to the butter mixture. If you can't find Provel cheese, a combination of mozzarella and cheddar can work as a substitute. Ensure the chicken is patted dry before dredging to help the breadcrumbs adhere better. For a crispy finish, try broiling the chicken for a couple of minutes after baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Modiga with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a light pasta dish. Consider drizzling extra lemon juice over the top just before serving for a zesty finish. This dish complements perfectly with Italian recipes, making it a great addition to any Italian-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Modiga can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This helps retain the crispy texture of the breading. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Modiga contains roughly 446 calories, with 12g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (66% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 534mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Provel?
Yes, you can substitute Provel cheese with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a similar gooey texture and flavor. Other options include gouda or fontina, which will also melt well and enhance the dish's richness.
What can I serve with Chicken Modiga?
Chicken Modiga goes well with a variety of sides. Consider classic Italian Chicken Salad for a refreshing contrast or creamy risotto for a hearty pairing. Garlic bread or a simple arugula salad also make excellent accompaniments to balance the flavors of the dish.
How do I ensure my chicken stays moist while cooking?
To keep your chicken moist, avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C). Brining the chicken for a few hours before cooking can also help retain moisture. Additionally, basting with melted butter throughout the cooking process enhances juiciness and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).