Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden chicken breast and watching as creamy goat cheese and savory mushrooms ooze out, creating a mouthwatering symphony of flavors. This Mushroom Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast isn't just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet home-cooked meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme, dried
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- Clean and finely chop the mushrooms into small, uniform pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the mushrooms until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushrooms with crumbled goat cheese, dried thyme, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the stuffing.
- Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the middle, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through. Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each chicken breast generously with the mushroom and goat cheese mixture, ensuring it's evenly distributed and sealed within the breast.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet with chicken breasts directly into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set.
- Slice and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh thyme or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Butterfly Technique: When creating the pocket for stuffing, use a sharp knife and cut horizontally, keeping one side intact to prevent the filling from leaking.
- Don't Overstuff: While the mushroom and goat cheese mixture is delicious, be careful not to overfill, which can cause the chicken to burst during cooking.
- Searing Matters: The initial skillet sear helps lock in flavors and creates a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
- Resting Period: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Fresh Herbs: Consider garnishing with fresh thyme or parsley to add a pop of color and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 284kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
