Easy Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast The Best Stuffing
Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Packed with a rich, cheesy filling, this oven-baked dish is perfect for any meal!
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts (4 large, boneless, skinless)
- – The foundation of this dish. Choose thick evenly sized chicken breasts to make stuffing and baking easier.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
- – Helps create a golden crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
- – Essential for enhancing flavor and balancing the dish.
Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon)
- – Adds depth and a savory kick to the chicken.
Paprika (1 teaspoon)
- – Enhances both flavor and color giving the chicken a lightly smoked taste.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)
- – A blend of basil oregano, thyme, and rosemary that brings an aromatic, herby note.
Stuffing Ingredients
Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened)
- – Creates a rich creamy filling that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
Shredded Cheese (½ cup, mozzarella or cheddar)
- – Adds gooey melty goodness to the stuffing. Feel free to experiment with Parmesan, feta, or pepper jack for extra depth.
Spinach (1 cup, fresh or frozen, finely chopped)
- – A nutrient-packed addition that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- – Brings a bold aromatic flavor to the stuffing.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (¼ cup, chopped, optional)
- – Adds a slightly sweet tangy contrast to the creamy filling.
Breadcrumbs (¼ cup, optional)
- – Helps add structure and texture to the stuffing while absorbing extra moisture.
Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional)
- – For a slight spicy kick that enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Optional Garnishes and Enhancements
Fresh Parsley or Basil
- – Adds a touch of freshness and color before serving.
Lemon Zest
- – A light citrusy note that balances the richness of the stuffing.
Grated Parmesan
- – A finishing touch for an extra cheesy savory boost.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from drying out.
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Place the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, stopping just before cutting all the way through. This creates a pocket for the stuffing.
- Be gentle to avoid slicing completely through the meat. If needed, place your hand flat on top of the chicken while cutting for better control.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil to help lock in moisture.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning evenly on both sides for deep, well-balanced flavor.
Step 4: Make the Stuffing
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, spinach, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes (if using).
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.
Step 5: Stuff the Chicken
- Carefully spoon an even amount of stuffing into the pocket of each chicken breast.
- Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to gently secure the opening, preventing the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Avoid overstuffing to ensure the chicken closes properly and bakes evenly.
Step 6: Arrange in the Baking Dish
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter for an extra golden, crispy exterior.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Halfway through, baste the chicken with pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 8: Let It Rest Before Serving
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and succulent.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley, basil, or grated Parmesan for a final burst of flavor and color.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 40g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 580mg
Recipe Category
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
- Diet: High-Protein, Low-Carb (with variations for Keto and Gluten-Free)
- Method: Baking, Oven-Cooked
- Keyword: Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast, cheesy stuffed chicken, easy chicken dinner, healthy chicken recipe
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate