Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a rich, savory dish that combines succulent chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy mushroom stuffing. The mushroom mixture, loaded with garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese, infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. Perfect for a comforting dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is both satisfying and indulgent.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

For the stuffing:

• 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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Mix until the cheeses melt and form a creamy stuffing.
4. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff each chicken breast with the mushroom mixture.
5. Season the stuffed chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
6. In the same skillet used for the mushrooms, sear the stuffed chicken breasts over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Add spinach: For an extra layer of flavor, sauté some spinach with the mushrooms and garlic before adding the cheese.
• Use different cheeses: Swap out the mozzarella or Parmesan for other cheeses like Gouda or cheddar for a unique twist.
• Spicy stuffed chicken: Add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mushroom stuffing to bring a little heat to the dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven. To retain moisture, wrap the chicken in foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe. They have more moisture and flavor, but may require slightly longer cooking time.
2. Can I make the mushroom stuffing ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mushroom stuffing a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to stuff the chicken.
3. What if I don’t have baby bella mushrooms? White button mushrooms are a good substitute, or you can experiment with other types of mushrooms such as cremini or shiitake.
4. Can I bake the chicken without searing it first? Yes, you can bake the chicken without searing, but searing adds flavor and helps achieve a golden crust.
5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer.
6. Can I freeze the stuffed chicken? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked, stuffed chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
7. Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you want a lighter version, though it may alter the richness of the stuffing slightly.
8. Can I make this recipe without cheese? You could substitute the cheese with a non-dairy alternative, or simply make a mushroom filling with garlic and herbs for a lighter version.
9. What can I serve with cheesy garlic butter mushroom stuffed chicken? Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
10. Can I add other herbs to the stuffing? Yes, you can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the mushroom stuffing for additional flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a decadent, flavorful dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions. The creamy, cheesy mushroom stuffing transforms simple chicken breasts into a gourmet meal. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try some variations, this dish will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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