This easy mushroom stuffed chicken breast is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is filled with a creamy mushroom mixture that makes every bite delicious. It’s great for dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that looks fancy but is super simple to make? I feel like a chef when I serve this! And it pairs well with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey cutlets instead!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add a wonderful texture and flavor. Button or cremini mushrooms work well, but you could try shiitake or portobello for something different. If you want a quicker option, canned mushrooms can be used, but they should be drained well.
Cream Cheese: This gives creaminess to the filling. You can swap it with ricotta or cottage cheese for a lighter filling or even use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty kick. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work just fine!
How Do I Properly Stuff Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing chicken can seem tricky, but it’s an easy process! Just be careful and take your time to avoid tearing the meat. Here’s how:
- Use a sharp knife to make a pocket in the side of each chicken breast. Cut deeply, but don’t cut all the way through.
- Press the filling gently inside the pocket. Don’t overstuff; you want it snug without bursting out.
- If needed, secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling inside while cooking.
- Remember to wash your hands and any surfaces after handling raw chicken!
With these tips, you’ll have beautifully stuffed chicken breasts ready for baking!
Easy Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delicious dinner ready in about 40 minutes total, perfect for a weeknight or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This step is essential for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re softened and fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the finely chopped mushrooms to your skillet. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they release moisture and become tender. Once done, take the skillet off the heat and let the mixture cool down a bit.
4. Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine your sautéed mushroom mixture with cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well blended and creamy.
5. Prepare the Chicken:
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Make sure you don’t cut all the way through—just enough to create a pocket for the filling!
6. Stuff the Chicken:
Fill each chicken breast with the mushroom and cheese mixture. Press it inside gently to ensure it’s packed in well, but be cautious not to burst the chicken.
7. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.
8. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven, and bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
9. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your stuffed chicken with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious, easy mushroom stuffed chicken breast with your favorite sides!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before preparing the dish. This ensures even cooking and helps the chicken retain its juices.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mushroom filling in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently before stuffing the chicken to ensure it’s warm and easy to mix.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
What Can I Serve With Mushroom Stuffed Chicken?
This mushroom stuffed chicken pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or a simple garden salad to complete your meal.
