This Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining juicy chicken breasts with a flavorful stuffing that brings a burst of flavor in every bite. With a perfect balance of herbs, cheese, and vegetables, this dish is not only hearty but also visually stunning, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The ease of preparation and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes will make this a regular in your meal rotation.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this baked stuffed chicken breast recipe for its unbeatable flavor profile and the ease of cooking involved. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the stuffing can easily be customized to suit your preferences. This dish is perfect for those following a balanced diet, as it combines protein with nutritious veggies and wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s an impressive-looking meal that will wow your family and guests, making it a fantastic choice for dinner parties or gatherings.
Tips and Tricks
- Pound the Chicken: To ensure even cooking, lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing them. This helps them cook uniformly and prevents them from drying out.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have access to fresh herbs, use them! They add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match.
- Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the chicken breasts, as this can cause them to burst during baking.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the chicken. Additionally, you can also stuff the chicken breasts and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting them in the oven for even cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Spinach Stuffing: Substitute the veggies with fresh spinach and cream cheese for a rich, creamy filling.
- Mediterranean Twist: Use feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives as a stuffing for a Mediterranean flair.
- Different Cooking Methods: Try grilling or air frying the stuffed chicken breasts for a different texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve the baked stuffed chicken breast on a vibrant plate, drizzled with a balsamic reduction or a light herb sauce for added flavor and presentation. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your baked stuffed chicken with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir. A refreshing side salad with citrus dressing complements the dish beautifully. For dessert, consider serving a light sorbet or a fruit tart to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Store any leftover baked stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible; instead, warm it in the oven for the best texture.
Equipment Needed
- Oven-safe skillet: For searing the chicken before baking (alternatively, you can use a regular skillet and transfer to a baking dish).
- Meat thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken.
- Cutting board and knife: For preparing your stuffing ingredients.
Dietary Adaptations
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and broth to make the stuffing.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or cooked quinoa instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Vegan: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini and fill with a vegetable-based stuffing.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, use fresh herbs and vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes. In the fall, opt for butternut squash and sage for a cozy, seasonal flavor profile.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes! Chicken thighs are more forgiving and can add extra flavor.
- How long should I bake the chicken? Bake for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C), but always check the internal temperature for doneness.
- What if I can’t find fresh herbs? Dried herbs work too, but use them sparingly as they are more concentrated.
Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast
This Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining juicy chicken breasts with a flavorful stuffing that brings a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of cooked spinach (or other vegetables)
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for searing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked spinach, mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs,
- Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the stuffing.
- Take each chicken breast and gently pound it to an even thickness. Make a pocket in each breast by slicing it horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the stuffing mixture, pressing down gently to ensure it is packed in.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 389Total Fat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 121mgSodium: 662mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 2gSugar: 2gProtein: 47g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This baked stuffed chicken breast recipe is a delightful way to elevate a simple chicken dish into something truly special. With its rich flavors and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and don’t forget to customize the stuffing to make it your own! Happy cooking!
