Welcome to your new favorite dinner dish: Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast! This delightful recipe combines the tender juiciness of chicken with a savory stuffing made from breadcrumbs, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike with its pleasing flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply wanting to elevate your weeknight meals, this dish promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite.
What makes Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast so appealing is not only its delicious taste but also its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform ordinary chicken breasts into a gourmet delight. Stuffed chicken is versatile and can cater to various palates, making it a great option for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. Plus, it’s easy to customize the stuffing according to your preferences, allowing you to create your unique version.
This recipe not only brings joy to your taste buds but is also perfect for those busy evenings when you need a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this fantastic Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Flavor Packed: Every bite offers a savory blend of herbs and spices.
- Comfort Food: Combining chicken and stuffing creates a cozy, satisfying meal.
- Quick Prep: With easy-to-follow steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
- Customizable: Adjust the stuffing ingredients to suit your tastes.
- Impressive Presentation: A rolled chicken breast makes for a beautiful plate.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you begin crafting your Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked. Next, gather a baking dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. Using parchment paper can be beneficial for easy cleanup.
In terms of cookware, a large skillet is necessary for sautéing the vegetables. A cutting board and sharp knife will come in handy for chopping the celery, carrots, and onion, while a mixing bowl will mix your stuffing ingredients. It’s also advisable to have toothpicks or kitchen twine available for securing the stuffed chicken breast. These simple steps will set the stage for a successful cooking experience.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 2 cups breadcrumbs or cubed bread (preferably day-old)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. As the oven heats up, you can prepare your chicken breasts. It’s crucial to pound them thin—this makes the rolling easier and ensures they cook uniformly.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is heated, add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté these vegetables until they are softened and aromatic, typically around 5–7 minutes. This step enhances their flavors and contributes to the overall taste of the stuffing.
Step 3: Mix the Stuffing
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a mixing bowl and combine them with breadcrumbs, freshly chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly moist. The right moisture level is essential for ensuring the stuffing binds perfectly within the chicken breasts—if the mixture appears too dry, you can add a little extra broth.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Lay your pounded chicken breasts flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the stuffing mixture onto each breast, making sure to leave a small perimeter around the edges. Carefully roll each chicken breast tightly, ensuring the stuffing remains inside. To hold the roll together, secure them with toothpicks or tie them with kitchen twine. Make sure the seam side is down when placing them in the greased baking dish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Once all chicken breasts are securely rolled and in the baking dish, sprinkle them generously with paprika. This not only adds flavor but also provides a lovely color to the final dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). For an added touch, broil the top for 2 minutes after baking for a beautifully golden crust, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for turkey breasts for a festive twist.
- Vegetables: Incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach in the stuffing for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a more complex flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- For a moist outcome, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the baking dish before covering it with foil.
- To ensure even cooking, allow the chicken to rest outside of the oven for a couple of minutes before slicing.
- If you want to avoid the hassle of rolling, this stuffing can also be baked separately in a dish for a quick side dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty feast.
Tips
- To enhance flavor, try using homemade breadcrumbs for a fresher taste.
- Feel free to butter the top of the chicken rolls for added richness.
- If you have leftovers, don’t hesitate to slice them cold for a delicious addition to salads or sandwiches.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 480mg
FAQs
Can I make Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and stuffing earlier in the day and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
What can I do if my stuffing is too dry?
If your stuffing mixture appears too dry, add a little more chicken broth until it reaches the desired moisture, but be careful not to make it too soggy.
Can I freeze Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast?
Yes! You can freeze the rolled stuffed chicken breasts before cooking. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
What should I serve with Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast?
It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast is not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to be enjoyed. This recipe combines the art of cooking with the joy of eating, creating a magical dish that brings families around the table. The delightfully savory stuffing enveloped in succulent chicken will make every dinner feel special. Don’t be afraid to try different variations, experiment with flavors, and make this dish your own. We invite you to try this recipe, share your thoughts and variations in the comments below, and make this dish a part of your culinary repertoire!
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Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This delightful recipe combines the tender juiciness of chicken with a savory stuffing made from breadcrumbs, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 2 cups breadcrumbs or cubed bread (preferably day-old)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. As the oven heats up, you can prepare your chicken breasts. It’s crucial to pound them thin—this makes the rolling easier and ensures they cook uniformly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is heated, add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté these vegetables until they are softened and aromatic, typically around 5–7 minutes. This step enhances their flavors and contributes to the overall taste of the stuffing.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a mixing bowl and combine them with breadcrumbs, freshly chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly moist. The right moisture level is essential for ensuring the stuffing binds perfectly within the chicken breasts—if the mixture appears too dry, you can add a little extra broth.
- Lay your pounded chicken breasts flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the stuffing mixture onto each breast, making sure to leave a small perimeter around the edges. Carefully roll each chicken breast tightly, ensuring the stuffing remains inside. To hold the roll together, secure them with toothpicks or tie them with kitchen twine. Make sure the seam side is down when placing them in the greased baking dish.
- Once all chicken breasts are securely rolled and in the baking dish, sprinkle them generously with paprika. This not only adds flavor but also provides a lovely color to the final dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). For an added touch, broil the top for 2 minutes after baking for a beautifully golden crust, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
Notes
Once the dish is complete, allow it to rest for a couple of minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Protein: 30 g