Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a delicious, indulgent dish featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy mushroom and cheese mixture. The garlic butter mushrooms add a rich, savory flavor, while the melted mozzarella and Parmesan create a mouthwatering filling. Perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

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 mushroom filling:

• 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 the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, sautéing until the mushrooms are golden brown and softened.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the filling is well combined.
4. Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket with the mushroom mixture.
5. Season the stuffed chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
6. In the same skillet, sear the stuffed chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is fully cooked.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Add Spinach: You can add spinach to the mushroom mixture for a boost of color and flavor. Sauté the spinach with the mushrooms until wilted.
• Different Cheese: Swap the Parmesan and mozzarella for other cheeses like Gouda, cheddar, or Gruyère for a unique twist on the flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom mixture or season the chicken with cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or place it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through. Be sure to cover the chicken with foil to keep it moist.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They may take a few extra minutes to cook, so check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can stuff the chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just be sure to sear and bake them the day you plan to serve.
3. What if I don’t have a skillet that can go in the oven? If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish before placing them in the oven.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free version and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for the mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check.
6. Can I use other mushrooms? While baby bella mushrooms are recommended for their rich flavor, you can use other varieties like white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms.
7. Can I grill the chicken instead of searing and baking it? Yes, you can grill the stuffed chicken breasts instead of searing them in the skillet. Just be sure to cook the chicken over medium heat and check the internal temperature.
8. How do I make the stuffing more flavorful? You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the mushroom mixture for added flavor. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce also enhances the umami.
9. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe container. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
10. What should I serve with this dish? This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a rich and flavorful meal that’s sure to please any crowd. The combination of garlic butter mushrooms and melted cheese creates an irresistible filling, while the perfectly seared and baked chicken adds a deliciously tender texture. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

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