Description: Tender chicken breasts are expertly stuffed with a creamy, savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, cream cheese, and mozzarella, then pan-seared to golden perfection and simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. This recipe is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of earthy mushrooms and rich cheese creates a delectable filling that elevates the chicken to a whole new level. Fresh thyme adds a touch of herbal brightness, completing this comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 100g (about 3.5 ounces) fresh mushrooms, such as cremini or white button, finely chopped
- ½ cup (4 ounces) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ¼ cup (about 1 ounce) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup (4 fluid ounces) chicken broth, low sodium
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (optional, for searing)
- Toothpicks (optional, for securing the chicken)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Place the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear.
- Using a sharp knife (a paring knife or a small fillet knife works well), carefully cut a horizontal pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Start from the thicker side and cut towards the middle, being cautious not to cut all the way through. You want to create a pouch-like opening for the filling.
- Season the inside and outside of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s crucial for flavor!
Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom Filling
- Thoroughly clean the mushrooms. Wipe them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Finely chop the mushrooms into small pieces. Uniform size is key for even cooking.
- In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the mushrooms; this will encourage browning rather than steaming.
- Add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. As they cook, the mushrooms will release their moisture. Continue cooking until the moisture evaporates and the mushrooms turn a golden brown color. This step is crucial for developing the rich, savory flavor of the filling.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Cheese to the Filling
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked mushrooms. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will result in a bitter taste.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the cooked mushroom mixture to a bowl. Allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes before adding the cheese. This prevents the cheese from melting immediately and ensures a better texture.
- Add the softened cream cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl with the mushroom mixture. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
- Divide the mushroom cheese mixture evenly between the two chicken breast pockets. Gently stuff the filling into the pockets, being careful not to overfill them.
- If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the opening of each chicken breast. Insert the toothpicks along the opening to keep the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Step 5: Sear and Simmer the Chicken
- In the same skillet (wipe it clean if necessary), melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown. Searing the chicken seals in the juices and adds a beautiful color and flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the broth to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the chicken simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. Remove the toothpicks, if used.
- Spoon some of the pan sauce (the chicken broth that has simmered with the chicken) over the chicken breasts. This adds extra moisture and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, if desired. The thyme adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
- Serve the Savory Mushroom Cheese Stuffed Chicken warm with your favorite side dishes.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Savory Mushroom Cheese Stuffed Chicken recipe is destined to become a family favorite for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost, it transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal effort. The creamy, flavorful filling of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, cream cheese, and mozzarella adds a luxurious touch that’s simply irresistible.
The recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. For example, you could use different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for a more intense flavor. You could also add other vegetables to the filling, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. For a lighter version, you could use reduced-fat cream cheese.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. Despite its elegant presentation and complex flavors, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the steps are straightforward and easy to follow. This makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something special but don’t have a lot of time.
Beyond the deliciousness and simplicity, this recipe is also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply feeding your family, everyone will rave about the tender chicken, the creamy filling, and the savory sauce. It’s a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and impressed. Finally, the dish is easy to adjust to the number of servings you want to produce.
Serving Suggestions:
This Savory Mushroom Cheese Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes make a healthy and delicious accompaniment.
- Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash complements the richness of the chicken and sauce perfectly.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful pan sauce.
- Pasta: A simple pasta dish, such as buttered noodles or spaghetti with pesto, is another great option.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- Don’t Overfill the Chicken: Overfilling the chicken breasts can cause the filling to spill out during cooking. Be sure to leave a little space in the pocket.
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is easier to mix and will result in a smoother filling.
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before searing helps them brown better.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked to the correct internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the Chicken Rest: Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
- Add a Splash of Wine: For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of dry white wine to the skillet after searing the chicken. Let it reduce slightly before adding the chicken broth.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the filling and stuff the chicken breasts ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Add a few minutes to the cooking time if starting with cold chicken.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving) Note: the calculation is based on averages and may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 40-45g Sodium: 300-400mg
Conclusion:
This Savory Mushroom Cheese Stuffed Chicken recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with a little creativity and technique, can create a truly memorable dish. From the tender chicken breasts to the creamy, savory filling and the flavorful pan sauce, every element of this recipe works together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and elegant or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and prepare to enjoy a culinary experience that will leave you wanting more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese in the filling? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of the filling. Gruyere, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar would be delicious additions or substitutes for the mozzarella. Just ensure that the cheese melts well and complements the mushroom flavor.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can definitely prepare this recipe ahead of time. You can stuff the chicken breasts with the mushroom cheese mixture and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to cook, simply follow the searing and simmering instructions as outlined in the recipe. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the chicken is cold from the refrigerator.
Q3: What if I don’t have fresh thyme? A: If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme as a substitute. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme for every tablespoon of fresh thyme. You can also substitute with other herbs like rosemary or oregano, depending on your preference.
Q4: Can I bake the chicken instead of searing and simmering it? A: Yes, you can bake the chicken instead of searing and simmering it. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can still pour the chicken broth over the chicken before baking to keep it moist.
Q5: Can I add other vegetables to the filling? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling to customize the flavor and add extra nutrients. Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, diced bell peppers, or caramelized onions would all be delicious additions. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the mushrooms and garlic before adding them to the cheese mixture.
