Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the first time I made this incredible stuffed chicken parmesan! I was searching for a dish that would impress my family during a cozy Sunday dinner, and wow, did this one hit the spot! The moment I pulled that golden-brown chicken out of the oven, it was like a cheesy, savory dream come true. The combination of tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and tangy marinara sauce is just divine. Trust me, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s not only comforting but also bursting with Italian goodness. Ever since that first bite, this stuffed chicken parmesan has become a family favorite, and I can’t wait for you to try it out! It’s perfect for any occasion, and I promise it’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients for Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to make your stuffed chicken parmesan truly special:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – make sure they’re plump and fresh for the best flavor!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – this will melt beautifully inside and make every bite ooey-gooey.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – for that rich, nutty flavor that takes the dish to another level.
- 1 cup marinara sauce – choose your favorite store-bought or homemade; it adds a lovely tang!
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – I love using seasoned ones for extra flavor, but plain works too!
- 2 eggs, beaten – this is your binding agent to help the breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a nice kick; you can’t go wrong with garlic!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that brings all the Italian vibes to your dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – don’t skimp on seasoning; it really enhances the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for browning the chicken and adding a touch of richness.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re ready to create something deliciously comforting!
How to Prepare Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for preparing this delicious stuffed chicken parmesan! I promise it’s easier than it sounds, and the results are absolutely worth it.
Preparing the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is key for getting that chicken cooked perfectly! Next, take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and carefully slice a pocket into the thickest part, making sure not to cut all the way through. Just a nice deep pocket will do! This should take about 5 minutes for all four breasts. Once you’ve made your pockets, season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a gentle rub to ensure the flavors soak in.
Making the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese. Mix them together until they’re well blended, which should only take a minute or so. This cheesy mixture is what will make your stuffed chicken so irresistibly gooey!
Coating the Chicken
Now, it’s time to stuff those chicken breasts! Take a generous amount of the cheese mixture and carefully fill each pocket, pressing down a bit so it fits snugly. After stuffing, dip each breast into the beaten eggs, coating it thoroughly. Then, roll the chicken in the breadcrumbs until it’s fully covered. This crunchy coating is what adds that delightful texture! Make sure the breadcrumbs stick well for that perfect crunch.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step adds an amazing flavor! After browning, transfer the chicken to a baking dish, pour marinara sauce over the top, and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is bubbly and delicious!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this stuffed chicken parmesan! It’s always good to have an idea of what’s going into your delicious meal, right? Keep in mind that nutrition values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, so these are just typical values based on standard ingredients.
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
So, while you savor every bite of this scrumptious dish, you can also feel good about the nourishing ingredients that make it a satisfying meal! Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time – You can have this delicious meal ready in just 45 minutes!
- Delicious flavor – The combination of melted cheese, savory chicken, and rich marinara is simply irresistible.
- Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will be begging for seconds, making it a hit for family dinners!
- Healthy option – Packed with protein and made with fresh ingredients, it’s a wholesome choice.
- Customizable – Feel free to add your favorite herbs or veggies to the stuffing for extra flair!
- Impressive presentation – Serve this dish straight from the oven, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
- Leftover friendly – If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), they make for a fantastic next-day lunch!
Tips for Success
Alright, before you dive into making this stuffed chicken parmesan, here are some handy tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly!
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s super tempting to pack in more cheese, be mindful! Overstuffing can cause the chicken to burst during cooking. Just a generous scoop will do!
- Seal the Pockets: After stuffing, gently press the edges of the chicken to help seal them. You can use toothpicks if needed, just remember to remove them before serving!
- Temperature Matters: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps to get that lovely golden crust. If the oil isn’t sizzling, wait a minute longer!
- Let it Rest: Once the chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and juicy.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix it up! Try adding a bit of ricotta or a different melting cheese like fontina for a unique twist.
- Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees it’s cooked through and safe to eat!
- Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed right out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and the flavors are at their peak. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to whipping up the most delicious stuffed chicken parmesan your family has ever tasted!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize this stuffed chicken parmesan recipe! Here are some ideas that I absolutely love:
- Cheese Swap: Instead of just mozzarella and parmesan, try using provolone for a sharper flavor, or even a blend of cheeses like gouda and cheddar. Each will bring a unique twist to your dish!
- Vegetable Upgrade: Add some sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or even chopped artichokes to the cheese filling. It’ll not only add flavor but also a vibrant pop of color!
- Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano into the cheese mixture. This will elevate the flavor profile and make it super aromatic!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese filling. It’ll give your stuffed chicken a delightful spicy surprise!
- Pesto Twist: Mix in a spoonful of pesto with the cheese filling for a herby, garlicky flavor that’s simply divine. It’s a great way to add an Italian flair!
- Stuffed with Meat: For a heartier version, try adding chopped cooked sausage or prosciutto to the cheese filling. It’ll add a savory richness that’s oh-so-satisfying!
- Different Sauces: Instead of marinara, experiment with Alfredo sauce or even a homemade white wine sauce. Each sauce brings its own flavor adventure to the table!
These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to cater to your family’s tastes. So go ahead, get creative, and make this stuffed chicken parmesan your very own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, if you happen to have any leftovers from this scrumptious stuffed chicken parmesan (which is rare, trust me!), here’s how to store them properly to keep that delicious flavor intact.
First, let the chicken cool down to room temperature after it’s cooked. You don’t want to trap steam in the container, as it can make the chicken soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. I like to place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking them, just to keep that crispy coating intact. You can store the stuffed chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep it longer, go ahead and freeze it! Wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they can last for up to 2 months. Just remember to label it with a date so you know when you made it!
Now, when it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in a baking dish. To keep it moist, you can cover the dish with foil for the first half of the cooking time. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through, and check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This method helps maintain that lovely texture and keeps the cheese gooey!
So there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor your stuffed chicken parmesan even after the initial feast!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this mouthwatering stuffed chicken parmesan ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level.
- Pasta: A classic pairing! Serve it over spaghetti, fettuccine, or even a simple angel hair. Toss the pasta with a light drizzle of olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a lovely complement.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, crusty garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate. Just slather some butter and minced garlic on a baguette, toast it, and enjoy!
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad balances the richness of the chicken. I love a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. It adds a nice crunch!
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus would add color and nutrients to your meal. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before roasting for extra flavor.
- Steamed Broccoli: This is a great way to add some greens to your plate! It’s simple, healthy, and the mild flavor pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
- Risotto: If you’re feeling fancy, a creamy risotto can be a fantastic side. The richness complements the stuffed chicken perfectly and adds a touch of elegance to your dinner.
With these serving suggestions, your stuffed chicken parmesan will shine even brighter on the dinner table! Enjoy every bite and the smiles it brings to your family!
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Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe: 7 Cheesy Delights Await
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious stuffed chicken parmesan recipe that combines tender chicken with savory cheese and marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice a pocket in each chicken breast.
- In a bowl, mix mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture.
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each stuffed chicken breast in beaten eggs.
- Coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown each chicken breast on both sides for 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
Notes
- Serve with pasta or a side salad.
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Adjust cheese types as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: stuffed chicken parmesan recipe, chicken recipe, Italian dish