I first created this recipe when trying to impress my in-laws during their first visit to our home. The empty plates and requests for seconds told me everything I needed to know—this dish would become a permanent fixture in our family cookbook.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose thick even pieces for easier stuffing and consistent cooking
- Mushrooms: Providing earthy flavor and meaty texture that complements the chicken perfectly
- Cream cheese: Creates a luxuriously creamy base for the filling that keeps the chicken moist
- Mozzarella cheese: Adds that irresistible melty stretch when you cut into the chicken
- Butter: The foundation of flavor that brings richness to every bite
- Fresh garlic: Minced finely to infuse the dish with aromatic depth
- Dried thyme and parsley: Classic herbs that enhance the earthiness of the mushrooms
- Parmesan cheese: Creates a beautiful golden crust on top with nutty flavor
- Fresh parsley: For garnish, adding bright color and a fresh finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F allowing it to fully preheat while you prepare the chicken. This consistent temperature ensures even cooking throughout the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Create Chicken Pockets:
- Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board and insert a sharp knife into the thickest part. Carefully slice horizontally to create a deep pocket without cutting through the opposite side or bottom of the breast. The larger the pocket, the more delicious filling you can add.
- Mix the Filling:
- Combine chopped mushrooms, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt and pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated. The softened cream cheese should bind all ingredients together, creating a cohesive filling that will stay put during cooking.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Open each chicken pocket and generously fill with the mushroom mixture. Press the filling deep into the pocket then gently press the top of the chicken breast down to close it as much as possible. Some filling will be visible but that adds to the beautiful presentation.
- Sear to Perfection:
- Heat butter in a large oven-safe skillet until melted and bubbling. Carefully place each stuffed chicken breast in the hot butter and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust that takes this dish to the next level.
- Bake Until Done:
- Transfer the seared chicken to a baking sheet and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and cheese is melted and golden. The slow bake allows flavors to meld while keeping the chicken tender.
- Rest and Serve:
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to help the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while the cheese is still gloriously melty.
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