Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful filling of sautéed mushrooms, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. This meal is perfect for those seeking a savory dinner that is easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve for guests or a special occasion. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make this delicious chicken dish with detailed step-by-step instructions, from preparing the stuffing to baking the chicken to golden perfection.

Ingredients with Quantities

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose medium-sized chicken breasts, which are easier to stuff.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Any type of mushroom works, but button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are ideal.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Gives a creamy texture and melts beautifully inside the chicken.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, sharp flavor on top of the chicken.
• 2 tbsp butter: Used for sautéing and searing the chicken, adding richness to the flavor.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the butter in cooking and gives a good sear to the chicken.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic garlic flavor.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: This combination of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme complements the flavors of the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a touch of color and freshness when serving.

Directions and Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is ready when you’re done preparing the chicken, making the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-6 minutes or until the mushrooms have softened and become golden brown. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring to avoid burning the garlic. Remove the skillet from heat and set the mushroom mixture aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

While the mushrooms cool, take your 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut a pocket into each one. Use a sharp knife to slice horizontally into the side of the chicken breast without cutting all the way through. This will create a pocket for the filling. Be careful not to make the opening too wide.

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Now, it’s time to stuff the chicken breasts. Take a portion of the cooked mushrooms and place them inside each pocket. Then, follow with a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese. To keep the filling from spilling out, you can secure the chicken breasts with toothpicks.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken

In the same skillet that you used for the mushrooms, heat the remaining olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. While the skillet is heating up, season each chicken breast generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Searing the chicken before baking locks in moisture and enhances the flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each breast for an extra layer of flavor. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should read 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, making it juicier when sliced. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is recommended for its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, you can experiment with other types of cheese. Cheddar, provolone, or even gouda would all make excellent alternatives.

2. What type of mushrooms works best for the stuffing?

Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are perfect for this recipe, as they have a mild flavor that pairs well with chicken. However, feel free to use portobello mushrooms for a meatier texture or shiitake mushrooms for a more earthy flavor.

3. How do I ensure my chicken breasts don’t dry out?

Searing the chicken before baking helps lock in moisture. Additionally, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you want to be extra cautious, you can also baste the chicken with some of the juices from the pan during baking.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours in advance. Simply stuff the chicken and sear it as directed, then store the seared chicken in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, pop the chicken into the oven and bake it. It’s a great option for meal prep or if you’re hosting a dinner party.

5. Can I freeze Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken?

While it’s possible to freeze this dish, the texture of the cheese may change slightly upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, assemble the stuffed chicken but hold off on baking. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to cook, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then follow the baking instructions.

6. What sides go well with Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken?

This dish pairs well with various sides, including garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple mixed green salad. You can also serve it with a side of pasta or rice for a heartier meal.

7. Can I make this dish with bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in chicken breasts take longer to cook through, so adjust the baking time accordingly. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

8. How can I add more flavor to the stuffing?

If you want to enhance the stuffing, consider adding a handful of sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the mushroom mixture. These ingredients add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a wonderful recipe that brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms, the creaminess of cheese, and the savory goodness of perfectly seasoned chicken breasts. It’s an easy-to-make dish that doesn’t require advanced cooking skills but delivers a restaurant-quality meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this stuffed chicken recipe is sure to impress.

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