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Baked Chicken with Artichoke Dip and Mozzarella Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, yet impressive dinner that feels like a treat without hours of work, this Baked Chicken with Artichoke Dip and Mozzarella Recipe is exactly what you want. It’s one of those dishes that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors into one effortless meal. Whenever I make it, my kitchen fills with this inviting aroma, and it always brings out compliments around the table!

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough when you have friends over. The creamy artichoke dip pairs beautifully with the melted mozzarella, and the baked chicken stays juicy with just the right amount of seasoning. Once you try this Baked Chicken with Artichoke Dip and Mozzarella Recipe, you’ll see why it’s become one of my go-to meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in a way that feels both indulgent and straightforward. I always recommend using a good-quality artichoke dip, as it’s the star of the topping and carries a ton of flavor for the whole dish.

  • Chicken breasts: Fresh, boneless, skinless—slicing them in half makes for thinner pieces that cook evenly and quickly.
  • Italian seasoning: A blend that offers the perfect herbaceous touch without overwhelming the flavors.
  • Garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth, helping to deepen the savory taste.
  • Onion powder: Balances the garlic nicely and enhances the seasoning mix.
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together—you’ll want to season generously.
  • Artichoke dip: This creamy dip is the heart of the recipe and I find the store-bought ones work well for convenience, but homemade is even better!
  • Mozzarella cheese: Go for shredded mozzarella for that perfect melt and golden bubble on top.
  • Bacon crumbles (optional): If you like a smoky crunch, these are a total winner—otherwise, feel free to skip or substitute with chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a different kick.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on the season or what I have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative here—food should be a joy, after all!

  • Use different cheeses: I sometimes swap mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack for a little variety in flavor and meltiness. It also pairs great with smoked gouda if you want to get fancy.
  • Add veggies: Spinach or kale mixed into the artichoke dip doubles down on the nutrition and freshness. I often toss a little in when I want a greener, healthier weekend meal.
  • Make it gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect for friends or family with sensitivities—just double-check labels on your artichoke dip.
  • Spice it up: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika stirred into the seasoning mix brings a lovely warmth if you like a little kick.

How to Make Baked Chicken with Artichoke Dip and Mozzarella Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken with a Flavorful Seasoning Rub

Start by slicing your chicken breasts in half horizontally so you end up with four even pieces—this helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Mix together your garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then rub this all over the chicken. Don’t be shy here; a good seasoning layer is key to keeping the chicken flavorful under that creamy artichoke dip topping.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken Before Baking

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat—this is so convenient because you’ll go straight from stovetop to oven without dirtying another pan. When the pan’s hot, cook the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned, but not fully cooked through (we’ll finish baking in the oven). This step locks in moisture and adds an extra layer of flavor, so don’t skip it!

Step 3: Layer on the Artichoke Dip, Bacon, and Mozzarella

Once the chicken is browned, remove the pan from heat. Spread a generous scoop of artichoke dip right over each chicken piece—that creamy layer really makes this dish shine. If you’re using bacon crumbles, sprinkle them on top for that smoky crunch. Finish with an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, covering the chicken and dip completely.

Step 4: Bake Until Juicy and Golden

Pop the skillet into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want the chicken to hit an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to make sure it’s safe and juicy. The mozzarella should be bubbly and turning golden brown on top—this is your sign that it’s ready to eat!

How to Serve Baked Chicken with Artichoke Dip and Mozzarella Recipe

The image shows two raw chicken breasts placed on a white marbled surface, surrounded by small white bowls filled with different ingredients. At the top middle, there is a bowl of creamy mayonnaise, next to it on the right is a bowl with ground black pepper, and below that, a bowl with garlic powder. Below the chicken breasts are shredded cheese in a small pile and crispy, chopped bacon pieces. The colors include pale pink from the raw chicken, creamy white from the mayonnaise and garlic powder, dark brown from the bacon, and black specks from the ground pepper. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves over the finished dish—it adds a fresh color pop and a bit of brightness that balances the creamy richness perfectly. Sometimes a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens things up nicely, too.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some simply steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. For heartier sides, garlic mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes are delicious companions that soak up all those wonderful sauces.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like serving individual portions on elegant plates with a drizzle of balsamic glaze around the edges for a touch of sophistication. Or try layering the chicken over a bed of creamy risotto or polenta to turn this into a truly decadent meal that wows guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats nicely and still tastes great, which is perfect for quick lunches or an easy next-day dinner.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, place cooled chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way they don’t stick together and you can reheat individual pieces as needed—perfect for busy days.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes to get the cheese melty again without drying out the chicken. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works, but cover the dish and heat in short bursts to avoid tough chicken.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

    Yes, but it’s best to fully thaw the chicken breasts before cooking so they cook evenly. Frozen chicken might release extra moisture, which can affect browning and baking time.

  2. What can I substitute for artichoke dip if I can’t find it?

    You can make a quick substitute by mixing chopped canned artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This mixture will give you a flavorful dip similar to store-bought versions.

  3. Is bacon necessary in the baked chicken with artichoke dip and mozzarella recipe?

    Not at all! Bacon adds smoky flavor and crunch, but you can leave it out or replace it with sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even chopped olives for a different twist.

  4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

    Yes! Use a dairy-free cream cheese or artichoke dip and substitute mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just watch cooking times as dairy-free cheeses can melt differently.

  5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

    The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part and check that the juices run clear and the meat isn’t pink.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Chicken with Artichoke Dip and Mozzarella Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s easy, delicious, and feels like a little celebration any night of the week. It’s perfect when you want something cozy but don’t want to spend hours cooking. I really encourage you to try it—you’ll love how the creamy, cheesy topping transforms simple chicken into a meal that’s both comforting and a bit special. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!

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Baked Chicken with Artichoke Dip and Mozzarella Recipe

  • Author: Any
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Baked Chicken with Artichoke Dip recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with creamy artichoke dip, melted mozzarella cheese, and optional crispy bacon crumbles. The chicken is first lightly browned on the stovetop then baked to juicy perfection in the oven, creating a flavorful and comforting meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 large chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise to create 4 pieces)
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

  • 1 cup artichoke dip
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup bacon crumbles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken later.
  2. Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over all the chicken breast pieces ensuring they are well coated.
  3. Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-proof large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side just until browned. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
  4. Add Toppings: Remove the skillet from heat and spread a generous layer of artichoke dip over each chicken breast piece. Sprinkle bacon crumbles on top if using, then layer the mozzarella cheese evenly over the dip.
  5. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

  • Using an oven-proof skillet allows you to easily transfer the chicken from stovetop to oven without switching pans.
  • The bacon crumbles are optional but add a nice smoky flavor and crunch.
  • You can substitute mozzarella with your preferred melty cheese like provolone or Monterey Jack.
  • Check internal temperature of chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked safely.
  • Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Keywords: baked chicken, artichoke dip, mozzarella chicken, easy chicken recipe, oven-baked chicken, creamy chicken, chicken with cheese

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