Imagine a mouthwatering culinary experience that combines tender chicken, creamy eggplant, and juicy tomatoes in one incredible baked dish. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. With its layers of flavor and easy preparation, this chicken breast bake is the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a gourmet indulgence.
Ingredients
- 500 g / 1.1 lbs chicken breast fillet
- 2-3 medium eggplants
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes
- 150-200 g / 5-7 oz cheese (preferably mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp sour cream or mayonnaise
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplants Wash eggplants, trim the ends, and slice lengthwise into thin strips. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 20-30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Fry Eggplant Strips Heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry eggplant strips for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the Chicken Wash chicken breasts, pat dry, and slice into 2-3 pieces. Gently pound to approximately 7 mm thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
- Layer the Baking Dish Grease a baking dish with oil. Create the first layer with fried eggplant strips, then place seasoned chicken on top. Add another layer of eggplant.
- Add Tomatoes and Aromatics Slice tomatoes into rings. Arrange tomato slices over the eggplant. Sprinkle minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Final Touches Spread a thin layer of sour cream or mayonnaise over the tomatoes. Generously sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake to Perfection Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
- Rest and Serve Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs.
Nutritional Information and Serving Details
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Approximate Nutrition per Serving:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
Why This Recipe Is Fantastic
This chicken breast bake isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Eggplants provide fiber and antioxidants, chicken offers lean protein, and tomatoes are rich in vitamins. The dish is low-carb, gluten-free, and can be easily adapted for various dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm with a crisp green salad or crusty whole-grain bread. For an extra touch, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving.
Pro Tip: For a lighter version, you can grill the eggplant instead of frying and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.