Directions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally without cutting all the way through, creating a pocket for the stuffing. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and thyme. Next, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the chopped mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese into the mushroom mixture. Stuff each chicken breast with the cheesy garlic mushroom filling, pressing gently to keep the stuffing inside. Secure with toothpicks if necessary. Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking. Remove toothpicks before serving and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides.
Nutritional Information:
A serving of this cheesy garlic butter mushroom stuffed chicken (one stuffed breast) contains approximately:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
This dish is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it suitable for low-carb or keto-friendly diets. Using fresh mushrooms and garlic adds antioxidants and flavor without extra calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
One frequent mistake is not butterflying the chicken breasts properly, which can lead to uneven cooking or the stuffing leaking out. Take your time to slice carefully and create a good pocket. Another error is overcrowding the skillet when searing; this causes steaming rather than browning, so cook the chicken in batches if needed. Overcooking the chicken will result in dry, tough meat, so use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Lastly, skipping the resting time after baking can cause the juices to run out immediately, leaving your chicken dry.
Helpful Tips:
For an even more flavorful filling, try adding sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the mushroom mixture. Using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and cream cheese creates a gooey, rich texture. To speed up prep, chop mushrooms finely and prepare the filling ahead of time. If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, sear the chicken in a regular pan and transfer to a baking dish before baking. Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness. Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is a delicious, elegant, and satisfying dish that elevates any meal with minimal effort. Combining juicy chicken breasts with a savory, cheesy mushroom filling wrapped in buttery garlic flavor, it’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can create a restaurant-quality entrée that will impress family and friends. This dish offers a great balance of nutrition and indulgence—making it a repeat-worthy favorite in your culinary repertoire.
