Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 10 oz refrigerated spinach artichoke dip
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F until the heat is consistent and radiating.
- Pat the 1.5 lbs chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Note: Surface moisture is the enemy of a good sear and sauce adhesion.
- Place the chicken in a single layer in your baking dish, ensuring no pieces overlap.
- Season the meat evenly with 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper and 1 tsp minced garlic.
- Spread the 10 oz refrigerated spinach artichoke dip over each breast until completely smothered.
- Sprinkle the 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese across the top of the dip.
- Bake for 25 minutes until the cheese is golden and the dip is sizzling.
- Check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Note: This allows the juices to redistribute so they don't flood the plate when you cut in.
- Serve immediately while the sauce is still velvety and the aroma of roasted garlic is at its peak.