Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a decadent, flavorful dish that takes your chicken dinner to a whole new level. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a savory filling of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in a golden, crispy exterior. The garlic butter sauce adds a luxurious touch, infusing every bite with rich flavor. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or entertaining guests, this stuffed chicken recipe is easy to prepare yet delivers a gourmet feel. This dish is a show-stopper, combining simple ingredients with techniques that bring out bold and satisfying flavors. The earthy mushrooms and aromatic garlic complement the mild chicken perfectly, while the cheeses add a creamy richness that ties everything together. The garlic butter sauce not only enhances the chicken’s flavor but also acts as a silky glaze that elevates the overall presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the comfort of melted cheese with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and garlic.
• Features juicy chicken breasts that are golden on the outside and bursting with a flavorful filling.
• Easy to prepare yet looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality dish.
• Versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, from pasta to roasted veggies.
• Perfect for special occasions or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 380
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the mushroom filling:

• 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped (white or cremini)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the garlic butter sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup chicken broth or white wine
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Mushroom Filling

1. Sauté the Mushrooms: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and golden. Stir in minced garlic and dried parsley, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Cool and Combine: Remove the mushroom mixture from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Mix in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

3. Butterfly the Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season generously with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Stuff the Chicken

5. Add the Filling: Spoon the prepared mushroom mixture into each chicken pocket, filling generously but not overstuffing. Secure the edges with toothpicks to keep the filling in place during cooking.

Cook the Chicken

6. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
7. Bake to Finish: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

8. Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth or white wine, dried parsley, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Serve

9. Plate the Chicken: Remove the toothpicks from the chicken and place on a serving platter. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Ingredient Background

• Chicken Breasts: The mild flavor and lean texture of chicken breasts make them the perfect canvas for stuffing.
• Mushrooms: Cremini or white mushrooms add earthy depth and umami flavor to the filling.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan: These cheeses create a creamy, melty filling with a touch of salty richness.
• Garlic Butter Sauce: Combines garlic, butter, and lemon juice for a savory, tangy finish that complements the chicken beautifully.

Technique Tips

• Cutting the Pocket: Be careful not to cut all the way through the chicken breast when creating the pocket for stuffing.
• Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the stuffed chicken to keep the filling in place during cooking.
• Searing First: Searing the chicken locks in the juices and adds a golden, flavorful crust before baking.
• Internal Temperature: Always check that the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Single-Serve Portions: Slice the stuffed chicken into medallions and serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
• Casserole Style: Place the stuffed chicken in a baking dish, pour the garlic butter sauce over the top, and bake.
• Mini Chicken Rolls: Use chicken thighs and roll the filling inside for bite-sized portions.

Additional Tips for Success

• Don’t Overfill: Overstuffing the chicken breasts can cause the filling to leak during cooking.
• Pre-Make the Filling: Prepare the mushroom mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to use.
• Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain its juices.

Recipe Variations

• Spinach and Feta: Replace mushrooms with sautéed spinach and use feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Caprese Style: Add diced sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the filling for a Caprese-inspired chicken.
• Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap each stuffed chicken breast in slices of bacon before searing for an extra layer of flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze stuffed chicken (before cooking) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Low-Fat Cheese: Use reduced-fat mozzarella and Parmesan to cut down on calories.
• Add Veggies: Include spinach or zucchini in the filling for added nutrients.
• Bake Only: Skip searing and bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes to reduce oil usage.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Elegant Dinner: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus for a sophisticated meal.
• Family Night: Serve with buttered pasta or rice and steamed vegetables for a comforting dinner.
• Holiday Gathering: Plate alongside garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a festive touch.

Special Equipment

• Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for creating precise pockets in the chicken breasts.
• Large Oven-Safe Skillet: Allows seamless transition from stovetop searing to oven baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well, but may require slightly longer cooking times.

2. What’s the best way to prevent filling from leaking out?
Use toothpicks to secure the edges and avoid overfilling the chicken.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

4. What other cheeses work well in the filling?
Cheddar, gouda, or Swiss cheese are great alternatives for different flavor profiles.

5. Can I skip the garlic butter sauce?
While the sauce enhances the flavor, the chicken is still delicious without it.

6. How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Searing the chicken and letting it rest after cooking are key steps to retaining its juices.

7. What can I use if I don’t have mushrooms?
Try diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach as a substitute for mushrooms.

8. Can I grill the stuffed chicken instead?
Yes, grilling works, but ensure the chicken is secured tightly, and cook over medium heat until done.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a show-stopping dish that combines comfort and sophistication. The rich, savory filling of mushrooms, garlic, and melted cheese pairs perfectly with juicy chicken breasts, while the garlic butter sauce adds a luscious finishing touch. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and stunning presentation. The golden-brown sear on the chicken creates a flavorful crust, while the creamy, cheesy filling adds an indulgent element to every bite. Serve it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad, for a complete meal. Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for home cooks of all levels. Try this irresistible stuffed chicken dish, and it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection!

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