Chicken Thighs Mozzarella
Juicy chicken thighs topped with melty mozzarella, sautéed mushrooms, and ham, baked to perfection—rich flavors perfect for comforting dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
- Dip each chicken thigh in beaten egg with water, then dredge in the flour mixture.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add coated chicken thighs and cook for 2 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove thighs with a slotted spoon and arrange in a single layer in a 12 x 8-inch baking dish.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and sauté mushrooms for 4 minutes.
- Cut each slice of ham in half and place a piece on each chicken thigh.
- Scatter the sautéed mushrooms over all the chicken thighs.
- Top each with slices of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs before cooking. You can substitute the mushrooms with spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist. If you're out of Parmesan, finely grated pecorino works well too. Be sure to adjust the cooking time if using bone-in chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter meal. Serving it with garlic bread complements the cheesy flavors perfectly. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto. Explore more Italian recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but be cautious not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Thighs Mozzarella contains roughly 372 calories, with 12g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2127mg per serving (92% 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 skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, skin-on chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture. Just be aware that they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure the skin becomes crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella, you can use provolone or fontina cheese, which will melt beautifully. For a sharper flavor, try using gouda or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
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).