Are you looking for a delicious and impressive dinner recipe that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This stuffed chicken breast recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's packed with flavor, healthy, and requires minimal cleanup – the trifecta of a great home-cooked meal! Forget takeout; this recipe offers a satisfying and flavorful alternative, proving that homemade cooking can be both quick and easy.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Butterfly each chicken breast by cutting a horizontal slit almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through! Season the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Stuffing
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the bread crumbs, cheese, parsley, thyme, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple stuffing recipe is easily customizable; feel free to add your own favorite herbs and spices!
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly into the pockets of the chicken breasts. Gently close the chicken breasts and secure with toothpicks if needed.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the dish. This will keep the chicken moist during baking. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks (if used). Serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or your favorite side.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken:
- Don't overstuff the chicken: Overstuffing can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the stuffing.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to prevent foodborne illness. This is crucial for healthy cooking.
- Add some moisture: If the stuffing seems dry, add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to the mixture.
Variations:
- Spicy Stuffed Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the stuffing for a kick.
- Cranberry Walnut Stuffed Chicken: Incorporate dried cranberries and chopped walnuts into the stuffing for a festive twist.
- Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken: Use a mixture of cream cheese, spinach, and artichoke hearts for a delicious and decadent filling. This variation is great for showcasing your homemade cooking skills.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This stuffed chicken breast recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a quick dinner idea that's sure to impress your family and friends. Try it out and let us know how you like it! We are confident this will become one of your best recipes.