Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (substitute with mozzarella or cheddar for variation)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
When I’m cooking with my daughters, Olivia and Isabella, I often let them pick out fresh mushrooms at our local farmers’ market, which makes this dish even more special. If you want to keep it lighter, swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the sauce delivers creaminess with a tangy twist.
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. I always remind my daughters that seasoning is like storytelling—each spice adds layers to the final tale.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- While the mushrooms cook, preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the cooked chicken breasts on a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet.
- Mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl to create the signature sauce.
- Top each chicken breast with the mushroom and garlic mixture, then sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly over the mushrooms.
- Generously spoon the honey mustard sauce over each piece, then finish by layering the shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Place the chicken under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately, letting the creamy, smoky flavors shine.
One tip I’ve learned from my time in Italian kitchens is to trust your senses. Look for the golden hue on the cheese and the sizzle of the sauce bubbling—these signs tell you when the dish is ready to bring to the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
