For this recipe, you will need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast. Cut it into small pieces for even cooking. Chicken breast is lean and packed with protein, making it an excellent base for our dish.
Use 4 cloves of fresh garlic, minced. Garlic adds a robust flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. It also brings health benefits such as boosting the immune system.
You will need 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. This cheese melts beautifully and provides that creamy texture we crave in cheesy dishes. Its mild flavor complements the other ingredients well.
1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning is necessary for added flavor. This blend typically includes herbs like oregano and basil, giving your cheesy chicken garlic bread an authentic taste reminiscent of Italian cuisine.
Use 2 tablespoons of olive oil to cook the chicken and mix with the garlic. Olive oil is heart-healthy and adds richness to the dish.
Choose one large baguette or loaf of French bread to serve as the base for your cheesy creation. The crusty exterior provides a satisfying crunch while the inside becomes pillowy soft when baked.
A handful of fresh parsley will be used for garnish at the end. Chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up rich dishes.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven ensures that your cheesy chicken garlic bread cooks evenly and achieves that desirable golden-brown finish.
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
Once the chicken is cooked through, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another minute until fragrant but not burnt. This step infuses your chicken with delicious garlicky goodness essential for our recipe’s flavor profile.
Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese along with Italian seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly until combined; this will create a cheesy filling that binds all flavors together beautifully.
Slice your baguette or French bread in half lengthwise to create two long pieces. Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; this makes cleanup easier after baking.
Spread the cheesy chicken mixture evenly over both halves of the bread. Make sure to distribute it well so every bite is packed with flavor! Top each half generously with remaining mozzarella cheese for extra gooeyness.
Place your assembled cheesy chicken garlic bread in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Remove from oven once ready and let cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for added color and freshness; this final touch makes it look as good as it tastes!