Tired of the same old chicken dinners? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for mozzarella stuffed chicken breast is your answer. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this healthy and delicious dish! This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Gently butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through!
- Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Step 2: Stuff the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and minced garlic.
- Place a few slices of mozzarella and a spoonful of the sun-dried tomato mixture into each chicken pocket.
- Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the mozzarella is melted and bubbly. You can also bake these in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite pasta.
Cooking Tips for the Best Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Use good quality mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella will melt beautifully and add a creamy texture.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add other herbs and spices, such as Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor.
Variations:
- Add some spinach: Include a handful of fresh spinach along with the sun-dried tomatoes and basil for extra nutrients.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This simple yet elegant mozzarella stuffed chicken breast recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!