Description
Stuffed chicken breast brings Mediterranean magic to dinner tables with herbed goat cheese and sun-dried tomato fillings. Succulent chicken promises a flavor explosion that delights your palate and simplifies gourmet cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 medium chicken breasts
Filling Ingredients:
- 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup (4 ounces) freshly shredded sharp cheddar
- 5 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, chopped
Seasoning and Cooking Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried chives
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to a moderate temperature of 375°F, ensuring an ideal cooking environment.
- Transform broccoli into a tender component by placing it in a microwave-safe container with a minimal water quantity, covering with a damp cloth, and heating for two minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Craft a harmonious filling by combining shredded cheddar, cream cheese, diced bell pepper, crumbled bacon, and aromatic herbs including parsley, chives, and dill with the steamed broccoli. Integrate ingredients meticulously to create a cohesive mixture.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by gently flattening them between plastic wrap, using a meat mallet to ensure uniform thickness and enhanced tenderness.
- Carefully construct a pocket within each chicken breast by making a precise horizontal incision along the thicker side, taking care not to slice completely through the meat.
- Generously distribute the prepared filling into each chicken breast pocket, ensuring an even allocation. Secure the openings with toothpicks if necessary to prevent filling escape during cooking.
- Develop a flavor-enhancing spice rub and apply it comprehensively across both surfaces of the stuffed chicken breasts, creating a robust seasoning layer.
- Activate a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, introducing olive oil to create a golden-brown exterior by searing the chicken for approximately two to three minutes on each side.
- Enhance moisture by adding chicken broth to the pan, then cover with aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven. Roast until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, allowing a brief resting period to culminate at 165°F.
- Present the culinary creation alongside complementary accompaniments such as creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Choose lean chicken breasts with consistent thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry spots.
- Pat chicken dry before pounding to help spices adhere better and create a crispier exterior.
- Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor complexity and aromatic intensity.
- When stuffing chicken, avoid overfilling to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.
- Customize filling by swapping ingredients like using Swiss cheese instead of cheddar or turkey bacon for lighter option.
- Check internal temperature with meat thermometer for precise doneness and food safety.
- Allow chicken to rest after cooking to redistribute juices, keeping meat incredibly moist and tender.
- Prepare extra filling to serve as a side dish or topping for added texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg