If you’re looking for a mouthwatering meal that’s full of flavor and easy to make, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken recipe is for you. Juicy chicken breasts are loaded with a savory filling of garlic butter mushrooms and gooey cheeses, creating a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish that’s baked to golden perfection. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and everything you need to know to make this standout dish.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Carefully cut a pocket in each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. Season inside and outside with salt and pepper.
Sauté the Mushrooms:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and tender. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
Make the Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Stuff the Chicken:
Fill each chicken breast with a portion of the mushroom mixture and cheese mixture. Use toothpicks if needed to hold the filling in place.
Bake:
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serving Tips:
Pairing Ideas: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal. A warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the garlic butter sauce.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon can add a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed chicken (before baking) in a tightly wrapped container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, covered, to prevent drying out.
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day ahead. Simply stuff the chicken, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When ready to cook, just pop them in the oven and bake as directed.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well for this recipe. They’re juicier and more forgiving, so they’ll stay moist even if slightly overcooked. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, you can swap the mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use dairy-free butter for sautéing the mushrooms. Just be sure to check the ingredients of the cheese substitute to ensure it melts well.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
While it’s best to use fresh chicken breasts for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken breasts if needed. Just be sure to thaw them fully before stuffing, or adjust your cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a true show-stopper, offering an indulgent blend of flavors with a simple process. Perfectly suited for both weeknight dinners and dinner parties, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Give it a try tonight!
Indulge in this savory Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken recipe! Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a rich garlic butter mushroom mixture and gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, creating a dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Baked to golden perfection, this easy and delicious recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Prepare Chicken: Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice through. Season inside and out with salt and pepper.
Sauté Mushrooms: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add mushrooms and cook until golden, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
Make Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Stuff Chicken: Stuff each chicken breast with the mushroom and cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to secure if necessary.
Bake: Place stuffed chicken in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Notes
Toothpick Tip: Using toothpicks can help keep the filling secure; just remember to remove them before serving.
Cheese Options: For a different flavor profile, try using Swiss or provolone cheese in place of mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread.