Succulent Chicken Breast Recipe

Divine Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe for Simple Dinners

Juicy, tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory goodness await your culinary adventure.

This delightful stuffed chicken breast recipe promises a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.

Packed with rich, creamy fillings and seasoned to perfection, these chicken breasts elevate a simple dinner into a gourmet experience.

Each slice reveals a hidden treasure of melted cheese, herbs, and unexpected ingredients that dance together in harmony.

The golden-brown exterior gives way to a moist, succulent interior that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palate.

Weeknight dinners or special occasions call for this show-stopping dish that combines simplicity with sophisticated flavors.

Get ready to transform your meal into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: 450 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients for Juicy Stuffed Chicken Breast

For The Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Creamy base that binds ingredients and adds luxurious texture with smooth, tangy notes.
  • Mozzarella: Melty cheese that provides stretchy, gooey goodness and enhances overall cheesy flavor profile.
  • Parmesan: Sharp, aged cheese that introduces intense nutty undertones and deepens savory complexity.
  • Dried Basil: Aromatic herb that brings Mediterranean warmth and herbal sophistication to the filling.
  • Dried Oregano: Earthy spice that contributes robust, slightly peppery undertones to the cheese mixture.
  • Onion Powder: Concentrated seasoning that delivers subtle, sweet onion essence without added moisture.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Spicy element that introduces gentle heat and vibrant kick to the filling.
For Fresh Ingredients:
  • Spinach: Tender leafy green packed with nutrients, adding vibrant color and delicate earthiness.
  • Garlic: Aromatic allium that infuses deep, pungent flavor and enhances overall taste profile.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Concentrated, intense tomato pieces that provide sweet-tangy Mediterranean character.
For Chicken and Seasoning:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean protein canvas perfect for stuffing with rich, flavorful ingredients.
  • Olive Oil: Smooth cooking fat that enables perfect searing and adds subtle fruity undertones.
  • Salt: Essential mineral that amplifies and balances all other flavor components.
  • Black Pepper: Warm, sharp spice that introduces gentle heat and aromatic complexity.
  • Paprika: Vibrant red spice that adds mild sweetness and beautiful golden-red coloration.

Tools to Make Stuffed Chicken Breast Effortlessly

  • Large skillet: Perfect for cooking spinach and searing chicken.
  • Mixing bowl: Essential for combining filling ingredients.
  • Sharp paring knife: Needed to create pockets in chicken breasts.
  • Paper towels: Used to pat chicken dry before preparation.
  • Oven-safe skillet: Allows for seamless stovetop-to-oven cooking.
  • Baking dish (optional): Alternative to oven-safe skillet for baking.
  • Cutting board: Helps with ingredient preparation.
  • Measuring spoons: For precise seasoning measurements.
  • Cooking tongs: Helps with flipping and handling chicken during searing.
  • Meat thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked to safe internal temperature.

Steps to Prepare Stuffed Chicken Breast

  • Flavor Explosion Preparation

A delicious journey begins with creating a mouthwatering blend of creamy cheese, vibrant spinach, and zesty seasonings that will transform ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy dish.

  • Chicken Canvas

Gently slice a hidden pocket into each chicken breast, creating a perfect vessel for your incredible filling without cutting completely through the meat.

  • Stuffing Magic

Carefully nestle the rich, herb-infused cheese mixture into the chicken’s secret pocket, ensuring every bite will be a burst of incredible flavors.

  • Golden Sear

Heat a skillet until it’s blazing hot, then quickly transform the chicken’s exterior into a beautiful golden-brown masterpiece that locks in all the delicious juices.

  • Oven Transformation

Slide the skillet into a preheated oven, allowing the chicken to cook through completely, turning your culinary creation into a perfectly tender and juicy main course.

  • Delicious Finale

Let the chicken rest briefly, allowing the incredible flavors to settle and the juices to redistribute, creating a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips for Flavorful Stuffed Chicken Breast

  • Replace dried herbs with fresh alternatives like chopped basil, thyme, or rosemary to elevate the filling's aromatic complexity and brightness.
  • Substitute chicken breasts with turkey breasts or use thin-sliced pork chops for a delightful protein variation that keeps the recipe exciting and versatile.
  • Infuse Mediterranean vibes by adding kalamata olives, or create a Mexican-inspired version with pepper jack cheese and diced green chiles for a spicy twist.

Serving Stuffed Chicken Breast Creatively

  • Rustic Italian Feast Companion: Pair this stuffed chicken with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, adding bright, zesty notes that complement the rich, cheesy filling.
  • Mediterranean Platter Delight: Create a colorful side spread with roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with fresh herbs.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection: Enhance the meal's flavors with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which will beautifully balance the creamy, herbed chicken and cut through its richness.
  • Bread Basket Enhancement: Serve warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic focaccia on the side to soak up the delicious pan juices and add a delightful textural contrast to the tender stuffed chicken.

Best Ways to Store Stuffed Chicken Breast

  • Smart Meal Prep Strategy: Prepare the filling and chicken pockets up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator. This technique saves precious time during busy weeknights and ensures maximum flavor development.
  • Refrigeration Magic: Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Keep the chicken whole or slice it to make lunch packing easier for work or school meals.
  • Freezer-Friendly Option: Wrap individual stuffed chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. These delicious portions can be frozen for up to 2 months, providing quick protein options for future meals.
  • Reheating Pro Tips: Warm refrigerated chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain moisture and prevent drying. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety and optimal taste.
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Succulent Chicken Breast Recipe

Succulent Chicken Breast Recipe


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4.6 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Mexican-inspired stuffed chicken breast brings robust flavors from jalapeños, cream cheese, and spices. Chefs can craft this delicious main course with simple ingredients and create a memorable meal you will savor with each delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  • 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup (240 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ⅓ cup (35 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup (50 g) sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
  • 3 cups (85 g) spinach (packed, roughly chopped)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tsps (10 mL) olive oil
  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil (or reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes)
  • ½ tsp (2.5 g) paprika
  • ½ tsp (1 g) dried basil
  • ½ tsp (1 g) dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp (0.5 g) onion powder
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Filling Preparation: Sauté spinach and garlic in olive oil until greens wilt and become aromatic, creating a vibrant base for the stuffing.
  2. Cheese Blend: Combine cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan with dried herbs, whisking until a smooth, luxurious mixture forms.
  3. Stuffing Composition: Fold wilted spinach and sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese mixture, ensuring even ingredient distribution.
  4. Chicken Preparation: Pat chicken breasts thoroughly dry and carefully slice a deep pocket along the side, avoiding complete separation.
  5. Stuffing Process: Carefully fill each chicken breast with the cheese and vegetable mixture, maintaining a controlled, even distribution.
  6. Seasoning: Generously coat the exterior with a blend of salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor profile.
  7. Searing Technique: Heat oil in a heavy skillet until extremely hot, then sear stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a golden, crispy exterior.
  8. Oven Finishing: Transfer skillet directly to a preheated 375°F oven, allowing chicken to cook thoroughly and reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
  9. Resting Period: Allow chicken to rest for several minutes, enabling juice redistribution and ensuring maximum tenderness.
  10. Plating: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and roasted green beans to complete this elegant, restaurant-quality dish.

Notes

  • Ensure Dry Chicken: Pat chicken breasts thoroughly with paper towels to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent steaming.
  • Knife Technique Matters: Use a sharp knife and create a precise pocket without piercing through the meat to maintain structural integrity.
  • Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to confirm 165°F internal temperature, guaranteeing food safety and juicy chicken.
  • Resting is Crucial: Allow chicken to rest 3-5 minutes after cooking, letting juices redistribute for maximum tenderness and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Sophie Martin

Sophie Martin

Co-Founder & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Nutrition and Healthy Eating
  • Creating Balanced Recipes
  • Meal Planning
  • Food Safety
  • Teaching About Nutrition

Education

Stellenbosch University, South Africa

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition
  • Focus: Studying how food affects health, learning about balanced diets, and understanding the nutritional needs of different people.

South African Chefs Academy, Cape Town

  • Program: Professional Culinary Arts Diploma
  • Focus: Practical cooking skills, focusing on healthy meal preparation and understanding various cooking methods.

Sophie Martin is the nutrition brain and feel-good foodie at Good Tasting Meals. With a degree in Human Nutrition from Stellenbosch University and chef training from the South African Chefs Academy, Sophie brings balance to the table, literally. She loves creating meals that are easy to make, great to eat, and good for your body too.

Her recipes are made for everyday living, with a little flair and a lot of heart. Sophie’s not here to count calories, she’s here to show you how fresh, simple food can fit into your life, taste amazing, and still be nourishing.

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