Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors and vibrant ingredients. This recipe showcases juicy chicken breasts filled with a savory mixture that can include cheeses, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and guests alike. The melding of flavors creates a comforting meal that is both satisfying and visually appealing.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will adore this baked stuffed chicken breast recipe for several reasons. First, the flavor profile is truly versatile; you can customize the stuffing to suit your taste, whether it’s a creamy spinach and feta, a savory mushroom and garlic, or a zesty sun-dried tomato blend. Second, this recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. It’s also a fantastic way to incorporate lean protein into your diet, making it a great fit for health-conscious individuals or those following a balanced lifestyle. The presentation of stuffed chicken adds an elegant touch, making it perfect for entertaining.
Tips and Tricks
- Pound the chicken: To ensure even cooking, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing. This helps them cook uniformly and reduces the risk of drying out.
- Use toothpicks: After stuffing the chicken, secure the opening with toothpicks for a neat presentation and to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Season generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning the chicken itself; a good rub of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices can enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Baste for moisture: If you want to ensure extra juiciness, consider basting the chicken with its own juices halfway through baking.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep this recipe ahead of time by preparing the stuffing and stuffing the chicken breasts a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can fully cook the chicken and reheat it later. Cooked stuffed chicken stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms and use a filling made from ricotta, spinach, and herbs.
- Different proteins: Try using turkey or pork tenderloin instead of chicken for a different take on the dish.
- Cooking methods: You can also grill or air-fry the stuffed chicken for a different flavor and texture.
How to Serve
Serve your baked stuffed chicken breast on a warm plate, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for a pop of color. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the dish further.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a medium-bodied red such as Pinot Noir complements the flavors beautifully. As for side dishes, consider serving with garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa salad. For dessert, a light lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the stuffed chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
Equipment Needed
- Oven-safe baking dish or a sheet pan
- Meat thermometer for checking doneness
- Toothpicks for securing the stuffed chicken
- Optional: a mallet for pounding the chicken breasts
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, replace chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower steaks and use a stuffing of sautéed vegetables and grains like quinoa or rice. For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Nut-free adaptations can be made by excluding any nuts from the stuffing and ensuring any sauces used are nut-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, consider using fresh asparagus and herbs for stuffing. Summer is wonderful for incorporating zucchini and tomatoes, while fall can introduce flavors like butternut squash and sage. In winter, hearty greens and root vegetables can be delicious additions to your stuffing.
Recipe FAQs
- What can I substitute for cream cheese in the stuffing? You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
- How long does it take to bake stuffed chicken? Typically, it takes about 25-30 minutes at 375°F, but ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Can I freeze stuffed chicken before baking? Yes, you can assemble and freeze the stuffed chicken; just be sure to bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How To Make baked stuffed chicken breast recipe
Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast
Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors and vibrant ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cream cheese, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Place the chicken breasts on a clean surface and gently pound them to an even thickness.
- Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly onto each chicken breast, then fold over the chicken and secure with toothpicks.
- Place the stuffed chicken in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for 5-10 minutes, then remove toothpicks and serve.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 503Total Fat 32gSaturated Fat 16gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 177mgSodium 552mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 2gSugar 4gProtein 45g
All Chicken Recipes.com, 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
Baked stuffed chicken breast is a delightful dish that can be tailored to suit any palate. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a date night, or simply to enjoy a comforting meal at home, this recipe delivers on flavor and presentation. With easy preparation and endless variations, it’s a dish that deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and seasonings, and enjoy the delicious results!