Cheesy chicken tray bake with leek and bacon
This Cheesy Chicken Tray Bake features tender chicken breasts, crispy bacon, and sweet leeks, all topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. A simple yet satisfying one-dish meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
2 leeks6 bacon strips
1.50 lb chicken breasts
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup scallions
2 cups mixed greens (or salad mix)
Looking for a delicious and effortless meal? This Cheesy Chicken Tray Bake with Leek and Bacon is perfect for you. Combining tender chicken breasts, crispy bacon, savory leeks, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese, this one-dish wonder is both comforting and nutritious. It's ideal for a weeknight dinner or a simple gathering with friends and family.
Instructions:
- Leeks: Trim off the dark green tops and root end, then slice the leeks lengthwise and rinse thoroughly to remove any dirt. Slice them into thin rounds.
- Bacon: Cut the bacon strips into small pieces.
- Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper all over.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it starts to crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the sliced leeks to the skillet with the bacon. Cook together, stirring occasionally, until the leeks are softened and translucent, about 5 more minutes.
- Lightly grease a large baking dish or tray.
- Spread the cooked bacon and leeks evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the leek and bacon mixture.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- While the chicken is baking, chop the scallions and set them aside.
- Rinse and dry the mixed greens or salad mix.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the tray from the oven.
- Sprinkle the chopped scallions over the top of the cheesy chicken for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Serve the chicken bake hot, with a side of mixed greens or your favorite salad.
This Cheesy Chicken Tray Bake with Leek and Bacon is a sure-fire hit that combines mouthwatering flavors and textures into one satisfying meal. Pair it with a side of mixed greens or your favorite salad for a complete dining experience. Enjoy this delicious and wholesome dish with your loved ones!
Cheesy chicken tray bake with leek and bacon FAQ:
Bake the dish covered with aluminum foil for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a blend of cheeses, depending on your flavor preference. Just ensure the cheese melts well to achieve that gooey texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
A large baking dish or tray, typically around 9x13 inches, works well for this recipe. Ensure it's large enough to hold the chicken, leeks, and bacon without overcrowding.
Tips:
- Ensure Proper Chicken Seasoning: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Evenly Cook Bacon: Cook the bacon strips until they are crispy for the best texture and to add a delightful crunch to your tray bake.
- Leek Preparation: Thoroughly clean the leeks by slicing them lengthwise and rinsing under running water to remove any dirt trapped between the layers.
- Cheese Evenly Spread: Distribute the mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and leeks to ensure that each bite is deliciously cheesy.
- Fresh Scallions: Sprinkle freshly chopped scallions over the dish before serving for a burst of color and extra flavor.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 470kcal
Protein 54g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 1.76g
Sugar 4.10g
Fat 20g
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