Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful, juicy, and satisfying dish that combines the savory goodness of tender chicken breasts with the melt-in-your-mouth creaminess of mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or serving guests at a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. The chicken breasts are carefully stuffed with mozzarella and a variety of complementary ingredients, then baked to perfection. The result is a mouthwatering meal that’s both easy to prepare and delightfully indulgent.

This dish can be customized with different seasonings, herbs, and vegetables to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a simple, classic flavor profile or want to add a twist with Mediterranean spices or Italian herbs, Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken offers endless possibilities. The combination of gooey cheese, savory chicken, and a crispy exterior makes this recipe an irresistible addition to any dinner table.

Why You’ll Love Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

• Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of mozzarella cheese and tender chicken creates a deliciously savory dish with the perfect balance of flavors. The cheese melts inside the chicken breast, infusing each bite with richness and creaminess.
• Simple and Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is easy to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and basic cooking techniques. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced chef, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a tasty, low-maintenance dinner.
• Customizable: This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences and flavor profiles. You can add herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme, or even incorporate vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the stuffing for an extra burst of flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a great option for meal prepping. You can make a batch of these stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time, refrigerate them, and bake them when ready to serve. This makes it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those following low-carb or keto diets. It’s also gluten-free, making it a safe option for individuals with gluten sensitivities.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 2-5g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing the chicken)

Optional Add-ins for the Stuffing:

• 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the middle of the chicken, making sure not to cut all the way through. The goal is to create a pouch for the mozzarella cheese and any additional stuffing ingredients.

Once all the chicken breasts are prepared, season the inside of each pocket with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. This will help infuse the chicken with flavor.

2. Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Now, it’s time to stuff the chicken breasts. Take about ¼ cup of shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese and stuff it into the pocket of each chicken breast. If you are adding any optional ingredients, such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or Parmesan cheese, layer them in with the mozzarella. Be sure not to overstuff the chicken, as you want to make sure the filling stays inside during the cooking process.

Once the chicken breasts are filled, use toothpicks or kitchen twine to securely close the pocket. This will help prevent the cheese from spilling out while baking. If you’re using toothpicks, be sure to remove them before serving. If you’re using kitchen twine, tie the chicken breasts snugly to keep everything in place.

3. Season the Chicken

After stuffing and securing the chicken breasts, it’s time to season the outside of the chicken. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub it in to coat them evenly. Then, sprinkle the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. The seasoning will enhance the flavor of the chicken and complement the mozzarella stuffing.

4. Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Once the skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and swirl it around to coat the pan.

Carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the outside is golden brown and crispy. This step will help to lock in the flavors and create a beautiful crust on the chicken.

Once the chicken is browned on both sides, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly inside.

5. Check for Doneness

To check if the chicken is done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast. The thermometer should read 165°F (75°C). If the chicken is not quite done, return it to the oven for a few more minutes. The cheese should be melted and slightly oozing from the pocket, and the chicken should be fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute within the chicken, keeping it moist and tender.

Garnish the chicken with fresh basil leaves, if desired, for an added burst of flavor and color. Slice the chicken breasts into thick portions to reveal the gooey mozzarella filling inside.

Serve your Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a simple pasta dish for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

• Pounding the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out in some areas while waiting for the thicker parts to cook through.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh mozzarella cheese rather than pre-shredded mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella has a creamier, more delicate taste that melts beautifully inside the chicken.
• Add Vegetables to the Stuffing: For added flavor and nutrition, consider adding vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the mozzarella filling. These vegetables pair wonderfully with the cheesy stuffing and add a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Secure the Chicken Well: Make sure the chicken breasts are securely closed with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking. If you’re worried about the chicken opening, you can also use a cooking string to tie the chicken closed completely.
• Serve with a Sauce: While Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is delicious on its own, you can enhance it with a variety of sauces. A simple marinara sauce or a basil pesto can be drizzled over the top for added flavor. For a creamy option, try a garlic butter sauce or a white wine cream sauce.

Variations of Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

• Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken: Add a filling of sautéed spinach and chopped artichoke hearts to the mozzarella for a creamy, flavorful twist. The combination of spinach, artichokes, and cheese is reminiscent of a classic spinach artichoke dip.
• Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken: For an Italian-inspired version, add a tablespoon of pesto sauce to the stuffing along with the mozzarella. The vibrant flavors of basil, garlic, and olive oil will infuse the chicken, making it even more delicious.
• Bacon and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken: Add crispy cooked bacon to the mozzarella stuffing for a savory, smoky flavor. The richness of the bacon pairs wonderfully with the creamy mozzarella and tender chicken.
• Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Stuffed Chicken: For a Mediterranean twist, mix sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella together for a flavorful stuffing. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, savory element that pairs well with the cheese and chicken.
• Spicy Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mozzarella stuffing for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle the finished chicken with a bit of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.

Storage and Shelf Life

Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though the crust may not be as crispy.

If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the oven as mentioned above.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve your Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables complement the rich, cheesy chicken perfectly.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory chicken.
• Pasta: Pair this dish with a simple pasta like spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine. You can toss the pasta with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs or serve it with a marinara sauce for a hearty meal.
• Garlic Bread: For a truly indulgent meal, serve the chicken with a side of crispy garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up any melted cheese or sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side dish that pairs well with the richness of the mozzarella-stuffed chicken.

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Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a delicious, versatile dish that will satisfy your cravings for a savory, cheesy meal. With its tender, juicy chicken and gooey mozzarella filling, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or as part of a meal prep plan, this recipe is simple to make yet packed with flavor. The tips, variations, and serving suggestions ensure that you can customize this dish to suit any taste, making it a must-try for any home cook.

Enjoy the comfort and deliciousness of Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken today – it’s a meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!