Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This Chicken & Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a burst of flavor in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or even a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying and delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through!
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Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
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Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly into the pockets of each chicken breast. Gently close the chicken breasts and secure them with toothpicks if needed.
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Sear and Bake: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step adds a beautiful color and enhances the flavor.
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Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked perfectly.
Tips for the Best Chicken & Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast:
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened for easy mixing. You can leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave it for short bursts until it’s spreadable.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If you're searing in batches, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of paprika, red pepper flakes, or herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil: Swap the green onions for sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist.
- Bacon & Spinach: Add cooked crumbled bacon and sautéed spinach to the filling for a heartier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This Chicken & Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a healthy and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone. Enjoy!