Are you ready to elevate your chicken game with a mouth-watering stuffed chicken recipe? Whether you're preparing a family dinner or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are filled with a rich and savory stuffing that bursts with flavor in every bite. Follow along with this step-by-step guide to create the perfect stuffed chicken dish that will become your new favorite. Read on to discover all the ingredients, substitutions, cooking tips, and more!
What is Stuffed Chicken?
Stuffed chicken refers to chicken breasts that have been slit open and filled with a delicious mixture of ingredients before being baked, pan-seared, or grilled. The stuffing can vary widely, ranging from cheeses, herbs, and vegetables to other proteins like bacon or sausage. The goal is to infuse the chicken with added flavor and moisture, resulting in a delightful meal that combines textures and tastes in one bite.
Ingredients List for Stuffed Chicken
To make this tasty stuffed chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Ensure they are of medium size to make the stuffing process easier.
- Salt and pepper: To season the chicken before cooking.
- Olive oil or butter: For cooking the chicken to golden perfection.
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup fresh spinach: Adds a burst of color and nutrients.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes: Provides a sweet, tangy flavor.
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded): Offers a creamy texture and mild taste that melts perfectly.
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and umami to the filling.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Essential for that aromatic, garlicky kick.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped): Brings a bright, herbal note to the stuffing.
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese: Helps bind all the stuffing ingredients together for a cohesive mixture.
For Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil: To sprinkle on top for added freshness.
- Grated parmesan: To give an extra cheesy finish.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about stuffed chicken is its versatility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try to make the dish your own:
- Cheese Variations: If you don’t have mozzarella or parmesan, try using other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Meat Options: Want to add more protein? Crumbled bacon, sausage, or even diced ham can be added to the stuffing for an even richer taste.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for large portobello mushrooms or thick slices of zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version of stuffed chicken.
- Different Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different veggies like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or mushrooms for a unique twist.
- Spice it Up: For those who like a little heat, adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the stuffing can kick the spice level up a notch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have the ingredients sorted, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly stuffed chicken that’s golden and flavorful:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, you can start prepping your chicken and stuffing ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully make a slit on the side of each breast to create a pocket. Be cautious not to cut all the way through the chicken. Season the inside and outside of each breast with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing
In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, parmesan, minced garlic, basil, and cream cheese. Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Using a spoon or your hands, stuff each chicken breast with the prepared filling. Don’t overstuff them to prevent the mixture from spilling out while cooking. Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside during the cooking process.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is golden brown.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken breasts to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing is hot and bubbly.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, flavorful chicken.
How to Cook Stuffed Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
For those who prefer a quick reference, here’s a simplified guide to cooking stuffed chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make a pocket in each chicken breast and season it.
- Prepare the stuffing by mixing spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cheeses, garlic, and basil.
- Stuff the chicken breasts and secure them with toothpicks.
- Sear the chicken in a hot skillet with oil or butter for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making stuffed chicken can be a breeze if you avoid these common mistakes:
- Overstuffing the Chicken: Adding too much filling can cause the chicken to burst open during cooking, resulting in a messy presentation. Stick to a moderate amount of stuffing for each breast.
- Not Searing Properly: Searing the chicken before baking ensures a beautiful golden-brown crust, so don’t skip this step!
- Skipping the Resting Period: Allowing the chicken to rest before cutting into it is crucial to keeping the juices inside the meat. Cutting too soon can result in dry chicken.
- Using Thin Chicken Breasts: Thin or small chicken breasts can be difficult to stuff properly and may dry out quickly. Opt for medium to large breasts for the best results.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A dish as delicious as stuffed chicken deserves an equally appealing presentation. Here are a few tips to serve your stuffed chicken like a pro:
- Slicing the Chicken: For a restaurant-quality presentation, slice the chicken at a diagonal angle to showcase the colorful stuffing inside. Arrange the slices slightly overlapping on a plate.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor.
- Drizzle with Sauce: For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle a light sauce over the chicken, such as a balsamic reduction or a simple pan sauce made from the chicken drippings.
How to Serve Stuffed Chicken
Stuffed chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to stuffed chicken, offering a comforting contrast to the rich stuffing.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds color and flavor to your plate.
- Salad: A light, refreshing side salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stuffed chicken.
- Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf or quinoa is another excellent choice, providing a light and filling base.
Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Chicken
If you're hosting a dinner party or special event, consider these ideas for a stunning presentation:
- Platter Style: Arrange the sliced stuffed chicken on a large serving platter with colorful roasted vegetables surrounding it.
- Individual Plates: Serve the chicken on individual plates with a generous spoonful of stuffing visible, garnished with a sprinkle of cheese or fresh herbs.
- Family-Style Presentation: Serve the whole chicken breasts uncut, allowing guests to slice their portions. This creates a more casual, communal atmosphere.
Stuffed Chicken Recipe Tips
- Toothpicks Trick: Always count the toothpicks when inserting them into the chicken and count again when removing them. This ensures you don’t leave any behind before serving.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid undercooking or overcooking the chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Freezing Option: You can prepare the stuffed chicken ahead of time and freeze it. Simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and cook as directed when you’re ready to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe? A: It’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy stuffing. However, if you prefer bone-in chicken, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I prevent the stuffing from leaking out? A: Secure the opening of the chicken breasts with toothpicks, and avoid overstuffing. Searing the chicken before baking also helps seal the edges.
Q: Can I make stuffed chicken in advance? A: Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to cook. Simply follow the cooking instructions when you're ready.
Q: Can I cook stuffed chicken in an air fryer? A: Absolutely! Air fry the stuffed chicken at 375°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Conclusion
This stuffed chicken recipe is a perfect way to take a simple chicken breast to the next level. The combination of tender chicken and savory stuffing creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress. With versatile ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be able to make this dish for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special gatherings. Try it today and enjoy a new favorite dish that everyone will love!
PrintStuffed Chicken Recipe
This stuffed chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts filled with a mouthwatering mixture of cheese, spinach, and herbs, then baked to perfection. Perfect for an elegant dinner or a weeknight meal, this dish is easy to prepare yet impressively delicious. The creamy filling complements the tender chicken, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks for sealing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture and secure the opening with toothpicks.
- Rub the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then serve.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the stuffing by adding sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or bacon.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- If you prefer, you can substitute feta or ricotta for the cream cheese for a tangier filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
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