Looking for a quick and flavorful chicken fillet recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner? This easy and delicious oven-baked chicken fillet is sure to become a family favorite. With a creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh tomatoes, it’s a satisfying dish that delivers big on taste with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken fillet recipe is simple, versatile, and can be prepared in just under an hour. The combination of juicy chicken cubes, a creamy sauce, and melty cheese makes it a delicious comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, with the addition of fresh tomatoes and herbs, it has a light, refreshing finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delectable oven-baked chicken fillet, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 whole chicken breasts
- 2 eggs
- 70 g (2.5 oz) hard cheese (grated)
- 100 g (1/2 cup) cooking cream
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or a mix)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove garlic, minced)
- 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large tomato (thinly sliced)
- Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). This ensures the oven is hot enough to cook the chicken evenly and create a beautifully golden top layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Fillet
- Take 2 whole chicken breasts and cut them into cubes. Try to cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Season the chicken cubes generously with salt and black pepper. Rub the seasoning into the chicken with your hands to make sure every piece is evenly coated.
Step 3: Grease the Baking Dish
Take a large ceramic or glass baking dish and brush it with olive oil. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the dish and ensures an even bake.
Step 4: Arrange the Chicken
- Transfer the seasoned chicken cubes into the greased baking dish.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer to allow each piece to cook evenly and develop a slight crisp on the outside.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them lightly. Add 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or minced garlic), and a pinch of salt.
- Pour in the cooking cream and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This will form the base of your creamy sauce.
Step 6: Add the Cheese to the Sauce
- Grate the hard cheese (such as Parmesan or Gruyère), and add a generous handful of the grated cheese to the creamy egg mixture.
- Mix well to ensure the cheese is evenly incorporated into the sauce. Set aside a portion of the grated cheese for later, which will be used for the topping.
Step 7: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken
Now, pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken cubes, making sure every piece is well-coated. The sauce will help keep the chicken moist while it bakes and adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
Step 8: Layer with Tomato and Cheese
- Slice the tomato into thin slices and arrange them on top of the chicken fillet.
- Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the tomato slices. The cheese will melt and turn golden, creating a delicious, crispy crust.
Step 9: Bake the Chicken Fillet
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25 minutes to allow the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt and become golden brown, creating a beautiful top layer.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken fillet is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- While the dish is cooling, chop some fresh parsley.
- Sprinkle the parsley over the baked chicken fillet just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This oven-baked chicken fillet pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus.
- A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or rice for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This recipe serves about 4 people. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
This chicken fillet is rich in protein and provides a good balance of healthy fats from the olive oil and cream. It’s a satisfying dish that is perfect for a family meal or dinner party.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Juicy Chicken
Cutting the chicken breasts into cubes helps them cook evenly and quickly, ensuring the chicken stays moist and tender throughout the baking process.
2. Creamy, Flavorful Sauce
The combination of eggs, cream, and cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken perfectly. The garlic and herbs enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish.
3. Cheesy, Golden Crust
The grated cheese melts beautifully over the chicken and tomatoes, creating a crispy, golden-brown crust that adds a delicious texture contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Simple and Fast
With minimal prep and just 35 minutes of baking, this dish is a convenient, crowd-pleasing option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Conclusion:
This oven-baked chicken fillet recipe is an easy, delicious, and versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich, creamy sauce, fresh tomatoes, and a golden cheesy crust, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, this dish delivers flavor and satisfaction every time!
