Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is an irresistible, indulgent dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, flavorful mushroom filling. The rich mixture of Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese, combined with garlic-sautéed baby bella mushrooms, creates a decadent stuffing that makes each bite a treat. Perfect for a special dinner or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe brings together savory flavors and satisfying textures in one delicious dish.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, sautéing until the mushrooms are golden brown and soft.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. Stuff each chicken breast with the mushroom mixture, then season with salt and pepper.
5. In the same skillet, sear the stuffed chicken breasts over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F).
7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Different Mushrooms: You can use other types of mushrooms, like cremini or button mushrooms, to suit your preference.
• Cheese Options: Swap out the mozzarella or Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss for a different flavor.
• Add Spinach: For a twist, add fresh spinach to the mushroom filling for extra greens and flavor.
• Spicy Version: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a small amount of jalapeños to the mushroom stuffing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but the texture may not be as perfect as when freshly cooked.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They will require a slightly different cooking time, so check the internal temperature for doneness.
2. Can I make the stuffing ahead of time? Yes, the mushroom filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before stuffing the chicken.
3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, low-fat cream cheese will work, though the filling may be slightly less creamy. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture.
4. What if I don’t have a skillet that’s oven-safe? If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, sear the chicken in a regular skillet, then transfer it to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven.
5. How can I make the chicken even more flavorful? Marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for about 30 minutes before stuffing them to infuse more flavor.
6. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before cooking. Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Bake from frozen, but increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.
7. Can I make this recipe without mushrooms? Yes, you can substitute the mushrooms with other ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes for a different stuffing flavor.
8. Can I make the stuffing without cheese? If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can skip the cheese and add extra herbs or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
9. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
10. What can I serve with Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken? This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a rich and satisfying dish that combines the savory goodness of stuffed chicken with a creamy, cheesy filling. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress guests or delight your family with its melt-in-your-mouth flavors. With easy-to-follow steps and a few simple ingredients, this dish makes a great addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy the decadence of the creamy mushroom filling and tender chicken with every bite.

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