Mediterranean Herb Chicken Portobello Power Meal
Turn humble Portobello caps into a protein‑rich, flavor‑packed dish with tender chicken, spinach, and Mediterranean herbs. This 30‑minute meal is perfect for busy weeknights yet delivers a satisfying taste experience. Light, fresh, and ready to impress, it’s a quick fix for any calorie‑conscious cook.
Ingredients
- 4 large Portobello mushroom caps, stems removed
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite‑size pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup sun‑dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the mushroom caps dry and brush both sides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt, pepper, lemon zest, basil, and oregano. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and sun‑dried tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the feta and Parmesan cheeses until melted and well‑combined.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly among the mushroom caps, pressing gently to fill the cavity completely.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the topping is lightly browned.
- Optional: For extra crispness, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes until the cheese turns golden.
- Drain any excess moisture, drizzle with lemon juice, and serve hot.
Chef's Note
Use a cast‑iron skillet for the sauté step to lock in moisture and give the chicken a beautiful sear. Finish the stuffed mushrooms under the broiler for a crisp, golden top that adds a delightful texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
Stuffed mushrooms can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes before serving. The chicken mixture can be cooked ahead and frozen for up to 2 days; thaw before stuffing.
Substitutions
Swap chicken for turkey breast or firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Use kale or arugula instead of spinach. Replace feta with goat cheese or a plant‑based Parmesan. Substitute sun‑dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers or sliced olives for varied flavor.