Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines tender chicken with a decadent cheesy and garlic-filled stuffing, offering a perfect balance of flavors. It’s easy to make but feels like a gourmet meal. You’ll love the versatility to pair it with various sides, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoon butter
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, both inside and out.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil and melt butter. Add mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses in a bowl.
6. Stuff the chicken pockets with the mushroom mixture followed by the cheese mixture.
7. Place the stuffed chicken in a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
8. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 chicken breasts
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spinach and Mushroom Filling: Add sautéed spinach for extra flavor.
• Creamy Filling: Mix in cream cheese for a richer, creamier stuffing.
• Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the stuffed chicken with bacon before baking for added crunch and flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute mushrooms with zucchini or bell peppers for a lighter, low-carb version.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked stuffed chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes for the best texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or fontina.

2. How do I ensure the chicken is cooked properly?

Use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can stuff and freeze the chicken before baking. Thaw overnight before cooking.

4. What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad work perfectly with this chicken.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

6. Can I make this dish in a skillet instead of the oven?

Yes, you can pan-sear the chicken in a skillet and then finish it in the oven or continue cooking entirely in the skillet.

7. Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes if you like some heat.

8. How do I prevent the stuffing from spilling out?

Be sure not to overstuff the chicken and secure it with toothpicks if needed.

9. Can I use frozen mushrooms?

Fresh mushrooms are recommended for the best texture, but frozen mushrooms can be used if needed.

10. How long does it take to bake frozen stuffed chicken?

Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 40-50 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions. The combination of juicy chicken, garlicky mushrooms, and melty cheese makes it a meal that everyone will love. Enjoy this flavorful recipe with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.