This easy mushroom stuffed chicken breast packs a tasty punch! Juicy chicken is filled with a rich mixture of mushrooms and cheese, making each bite deliciously cheesy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe as they’re easy to stuff and cook evenly. If you prefer dark meat, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier result!
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms work well, providing great flavor. If you want a different taste, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms—just chop them finely to fit into the chicken.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a nice stretch, while Parmesan adds a savory kick. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese or simply omit the cheese for a lighter version.
Onions & Garlic: I always add these for flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder will work in a pinch—about 1/2 teaspoon should do.
How Do I Properly Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken breasts can be tricky, but with the right steps, it’s easy! The key is to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a sharp knife and place the chicken breast flat on a cutting board.
- Hold the chicken steady and slice horizontally into the thickest part, creating a pocket.
- Be careful to leave enough space at the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Gently stuff the mixture inside, then secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Taking your time here ensures the stuffing stays inside while cooking!
Easy Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing chicken)
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 25-30 minutes for cooking. So, you can enjoy this delicious dish in about 50 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you need it.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant—this step adds a lovely base flavor!
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Next, toss in the chopped mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms will release moisture and become tender. Once done, turn off the heat and stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and parsley if you’re using it. This will be your delicious stuffing!
4. Prepare the Chicken:
Now it’s time to prepare the chicken breasts. Take a sharp knife and gently cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through—just enough to create space for the filling.
5. Stuff the Chicken:
Fill each chicken breast with the mushroom and cheese mixture. Be generous! After filling, secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep everything inside while it cooks.
6. Sear the Chicken:
In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a nice crust!
7. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Let it Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step helps keep the juices in, making every bite even tastier!
Slice the chicken, serve it up with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy your delightful mushroom stuffed chicken breast!
FAQ for Easy Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to fully thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the quick-thaw method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging in cold water. Once thawed, proceed with the recipe as directed.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the chicken breasts up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate the stuffed chicken until you’re ready to cook them. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if they’re cold from the fridge.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This stuffed chicken pairs beautifully with various sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up any delicious juices.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or sauce can help keep it moist during reheating!
