Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and indulgent dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, creamy cheese, and earthy mushrooms, all stuffed inside tender chicken breasts. The dish is then seared to a golden brown perfection before being baked to ensure the chicken stays juicy and the filling is wonderfully melty. It’s an easy yet impressive recipe that’s perfect for dinner parties or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Mushroom Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the garlic and chopped mushrooms.
- Cook until the mushrooms are soft and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set the mixture aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. The pocket will hold the mushroom and cheese mixture.
- Stuff each chicken breast evenly with the mushroom and cheese mixture.
- Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside while cooking.
4. Season the Chicken:
- Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika for added flavor.
5. Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear each stuffed chicken breast until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. This step adds flavor and helps to lock in the juices.
6. Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the skillet (or place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet if your skillet isn’t oven-safe) to the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove the toothpicks and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness inside!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with large portobello mushrooms and stuff them with the mushroom and cheese mixture for a hearty, vegetarian dish.
- Different Cheese: You can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Add Spinach: Add sautéed spinach or kale to the mushroom filling for extra nutrients and color.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or sprinkle some cayenne pepper over the chicken before baking for a little heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 375°F (190°C) until hot.
- Reheating: Reheat the stuffed chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.
10 FAQs About Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute. They will be more tender and flavorful.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Gouda, cheddar, or even parmesan would all work well. Use a cheese you enjoy for a different flavor profile.
- What if I don’t have fresh mushrooms? You can use canned mushrooms or any other type of mushrooms you prefer, like cremini or portobello. Just be sure to chop them finely.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point of searing, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking.
- Is there a substitute for cream cheese? You can use ricotta cheese or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
- What can I serve with this dish? This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, a side salad, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.
- How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy? Be sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F for safe consumption.
- Can I make this dish in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook the stuffed chicken breasts in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours. However, searing the chicken first will help develop a better flavor.
- What should I do if the filling leaks out of the chicken while baking? If some of the filling leaks out, it’s perfectly fine. You can simply spoon it back on top of the chicken, or use a toothpick to secure the chicken more tightly before baking.
- Can I use a different herb instead of thyme? Yes, rosemary, oregano, or sage would all make excellent substitutes for thyme.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that will become a go-to for family dinners or special occasions. The creamy, cheesy filling combined with the savory mushrooms and garlic pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy chicken. Whether you’re serving it with a side of vegetables or over a bed of rice, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.