This Easy Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast is perfect for a tasty dinner! Juicy chicken filled with savory mushrooms and cheese makes every bite special.
Let’s be real, who can resist that cheesy, mushroom goodness? I love to serve it with a side of veggies for a colorful plate. It’s quick to make, so you’ll be enjoying it in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts make this dish easy and tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use chicken thighs, which add a richer flavor.
Mushrooms: Both white and cremini mushrooms work great for stuffing. If you’re a fan of other mushrooms like shiitake or portobello, feel free to substitute. They’ll add a unique taste!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltiness, but Swiss cheese also brings a lovely nutty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese or simply omit it.
Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish, but you can swap it for spinach or basil if you prefer. Dried herbs like oregano or rosemary can also work beautifully in filling.
How Do I Properly Stuff Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing chicken breasts can be tricky, but it’s all about the right technique. First, use a sharp knife to create a pocket—be careful not to cut completely through the sides.
- Fill the pocket with the mushroom mixture and cheese, but don’t overstuff!
- Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine so the filling stays inside while cooking.
- Season the outside generously with salt and pepper for added flavor.
This method ensures the filling stays put and the chicken remains juicy. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (white or cremini)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure chicken
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for cooking. So, in just 40 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and filling meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for the chicken.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Next, add the finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and become tender. Stir in the dried thyme or Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from the heat, and mix in half of the chopped parsley. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Chicken:
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through. You want to create a space for the stuffing!
5. Stuff the Chicken:
Now, fill each chicken breast pocket with the mushroom mixture and sprinkle cheese inside. Don’t overstuff, or it will be hard to seal!
6. Secure the Chicken:
Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the openings of the stuffed chicken breasts. This will keep the filling from spilling out while cooking.
7. Season the Chicken:
Generously season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
8. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
9. Bake the Chicken:
Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear (check for an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
10. Serve and Enjoy:
When done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with the rest of the chopped parsley, remove the toothpicks or twine, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Easy Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast!
FAQ for Easy Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast
Can I Use Other Vegetables in the Stuffing?
Absolutely! You can get creative with the stuffing. Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini can be great additions or alternatives to mushrooms. Just make sure to chop them finely and sauté until softened before adding them to the chicken.
What If I Don’t Have Toothpicks or Twine?
No problem! If you don’t have toothpicks or kitchen twine, you can use a small oven-safe dish to hold the chicken together or simply place the stuffed chicken breast seam-side down in the skillet while cooking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To keep it from drying out, consider adding a splash of broth or water before reheating.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
Yes! You can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge before searing and baking as directed.