Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for serving)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be sure to leave the edges intact, so the filling stays inside.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture. You can use a spoon to pack the filling tightly inside. Depending on the size of your chicken breasts, you may have extra filling, which you can use as a topping once baked.
- Coat the Chicken (Optional Step for Crispy Exterior):
- In a shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs. Roll each stuffed chicken breast in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat evenly. This will give the chicken a crispy, golden exterior after baking.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place the stuffed and coated chicken breasts on a lightly greased baking dish or sheet pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- If you’d like an extra crispy topping, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning the breadcrumbs.
- Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven. Spoon some marinara sauce over each stuffed chicken breast and garnish with fresh basil (optional). Serve with pasta, a side salad, or your favorite vegetable.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese:
- Rich and Creamy Filling: The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy, cheesy filling that adds extra flavor and moisture to the chicken.
- Perfect Balance of Crispy and Tender: The breadcrumbs give the chicken a delicious, crispy outer layer, while the inside remains tender and juicy.
- Simple and Quick: Despite its rich flavors, this dish is easy to prepare and doesn’t require complex ingredients or techniques. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Tips for Success:
- Cheese Variations: You can experiment with different cheeses in the filling. For example, try adding cheddar cheese or cream cheese with herbs for extra flavor.
- Serve with Garlic Bread: Pair this dish with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
- Make it Ahead: Prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to cook.
Enjoy this indulgent Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese as a hearty and comforting meal your family will love!