Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Introduction

Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious, flavorful dish that turns a simple chicken breast into a gourmet meal. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a variety of savory fillings, offering a rich taste that will impress anyone at your table. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner idea or a dish to serve at a special gathering, Stuffed Chicken Breast checks all the boxes: it’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and versatile. With endless stuffing possibilities—from spinach and cheese to mushrooms and bacon—this dish can be customized to suit any taste.

The beauty of Stuffed Chicken Breast lies in the way the stuffing infuses the chicken with additional flavor, keeping it moist and juicy. The crispy, golden-brown exterior of the chicken contrasts beautifully with the soft and creamy stuffing inside, making for a delightful texture combination. This recipe walks you through every step of the process, helping you achieve perfectly stuffed chicken every time, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Chicken Breast

• Flavorful and Savory: Stuffing the chicken with ingredients like spinach, cheese, garlic, and herbs adds a burst of flavor to each bite. The stuffing melts into the chicken, creating a delicious, juicy filling that’s full of taste.
• Perfect Texture: The chicken breast stays moist and tender thanks to the stuffing. The outside crisps up beautifully in the oven, while the interior remains soft and flavorful.
• Customizable: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the stuffing to fit your preferences—whether you love creamy cheese, earthy mushrooms, or zesty sun-dried tomatoes. The possibilities are endless!
• Impressive and Elegant: Stuffed Chicken Breast makes for an elegant dinner that’s sure to impress guests. It’s perfect for a dinner party, a holiday meal, or a cozy dinner at home.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite looking sophisticated, Stuffed Chicken Breast is easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to make.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the stuffing ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-500 kcal
• Fat: 22-28g
• Carbohydrates: 5-7g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Chicken Breasts:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup spinach (fresh, chopped)
• 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)

Optional Add-ins (for Extra Flavor):

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• ½ cup mushrooms (sautéed)
• ¼ cup cooked bacon (crumbled)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Stuffing

Start by preparing the stuffing for your chicken breasts. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the minced garlic. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed. The cream cheese provides a creamy, rich base for the stuffing, while the mozzarella and Parmesan add flavor and a touch of meltiness.

Next, add the spinach. If you’re using fresh spinach, chop it finely, and if you prefer, you can sauté it lightly to soften it and release any excess moisture. Add the spinach to the cheese mixture, followed by salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Mix everything together until the stuffing is evenly combined.

At this point, you can also add any optional ingredients, like sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or bacon. These additions bring an extra layer of flavor to the dish and make the stuffing even more exciting. Mix these add-ins thoroughly into the stuffing mixture.

2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

To stuff the chicken breasts, first, you need to prepare them. If your chicken breasts are thick, you can slice them horizontally to create a pocket for the stuffing. If you prefer, you can also use a sharp knife to carefully cut a slit in the center of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Once the chicken breasts are prepared, season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This basic seasoning will enhance the flavor of the chicken and help balance the richness of the stuffing.

3. Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Now it’s time to stuff the chicken. Using a spoon or small spatula, carefully fill each chicken breast with the prepared stuffing mixture. Be sure to pack the stuffing into the pocket or slit, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed. If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the opening of the chicken breast so that the stuffing doesn’t spill out during cooking.

4. Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and the butter is melted, carefully add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the outside is golden brown and crispy. This step helps to seal in the juices and adds a beautiful color to the chicken.

5. Bake the Chicken

After the chicken is seared, transfer the skillet to the oven (or you can transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish if your skillet isn’t oven-safe). Bake the stuffed chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

During baking, the stuffing will melt slightly, creating a creamy, flavorful filling inside the chicken. The exterior of the chicken will remain crisp and golden, giving you a perfect contrast of textures.

6. Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, ensuring that it remains tender and moist. After resting, slice the chicken in half to reveal the delicious, gooey stuffing inside.

Serve the Stuffed Chicken Breasts on a platter, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired. You can also drizzle some extra sauce or a balsamic reduction over the top for added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken Breast

• Don’t Overstuff the Chicken: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts, as this can cause them to burst open during cooking. Stuff the chicken just enough to fill the pocket without making it too tight.
• Seal the Chicken Well: If you’re using toothpicks to secure the chicken, make sure they are removed before serving. You can also tie the chicken with kitchen twine to keep the stuffing in place if you prefer.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
• Customize the Stuffing: The stuffing is highly customizable. Feel free to add different cheeses, vegetables, or proteins to make the dish your own. Fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, can be added to the stuffing for extra fragrance and flavor.
• Searing First: Don’t skip the searing step! Searing the chicken on the stovetop before baking adds a lovely crisp exterior and helps lock in the juices, ensuring the chicken remains moist.

Variations of Stuffed Chicken Breast

• Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breast: Swap out the spinach for artichoke hearts, and add a bit of garlic and lemon juice to the stuffing. This variation is inspired by the classic spinach and artichoke dip, and it’s just as delicious.
• Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast: Stuff the chicken with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a Caprese-inspired dish. Drizzle the chicken with balsamic glaze just before serving for a beautiful presentation.
• Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast: For a smoky, savory twist, stuff the chicken with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese. The bacon adds a rich flavor that complements the creamy cheese perfectly.
• Mushroom and Swiss Stuffed Chicken Breast: Sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese make for an earthy, flavorful stuffing that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken.
• Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast: Spread a thin layer of pesto inside the chicken breast before stuffing it with mozzarella cheese. The pesto adds a fresh, herby flavor that brightens the dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Stuffed Chicken Breast is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, but it can be stored for later use. To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. Refrigerated stuffed chicken breasts will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

To reheat, simply place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, though the oven method helps maintain the chicken’s texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked stuffed chicken breasts. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen stuffed chicken will last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Stuffed Chicken Breast

Stuffed Chicken Breast is a hearty and satisfying dish on its own, but it pairs well with several side dishes:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus complement the richness of the stuffed chicken.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic make a classic pairing with stuffed chicken.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a crisp, refreshing element to balance the richness of the chicken.
• Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf with herbs and almonds makes a great side dish that pairs well with the savory chicken.
• Sautéed Greens: A side of sautéed spinach, kale, or Swiss chard adds a healthy, flavorful contrast to the richness of the stuffed chicken.

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Conclusion

Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious, versatile, and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken and a variety of flavorful fillings, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you stick with the classic spinach and cheese stuffing or experiment with other variations, this recipe is a great way to elevate your chicken game and impress your guests.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, Stuffed Chicken Breast is a dish that can be made on a weeknight or saved for a special celebration. Enjoy the tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and beautiful presentation—it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!