Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort food dishes: Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken! I mean, who can resist juicy chicken breasts lovingly stuffed with a creamy, herb-infused filling? It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and it’s so easy to make that it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation.
I still remember the first time I made this dish years ago. It was one of those nights when my friends decided to come over for dinner. My original plan was to whip up a simple pasta dish, but then I thought, “Why not impress them instead?” Armed with some cream cheese and whatever herbs I could find in my fridge, this stuffed chicken was born! They were raving about it all evening, making me feel like a culinary superstar. This recipe not only delights the taste buds but also fills the kitchen with the most incredible aroma. Let’s dive into how to recreate this magic!
What’s in Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken?
Let me break down the glorious ingredients that come together in this tasty dish:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the star of our dish! Smooth and tender, they serve as the perfect blank canvas, just waiting to be filled with deliciousness.
Cream cheese: Softened to creamy perfection, this ingredient is what adds that rich, indulgent taste. I often use Philadelphia, but whatever brand you love will work!
Fresh parsley: Oh, the freshness! Chopped parsley adds a lovely brightness that balances out the creaminess of the cheese.
Green onions: A little crunch and a punch of flavor! These add a nice zing to the filling.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These pantry staples provide an easy way to infuse savory flavors without any chopping!
Salt and black pepper: The classics. They’ll help enhance all the other flavors.
Breadcrumbs: We’re using these for a nice crispy coating. You can use store-bought or make your own if you’re feeling fancy!
Olive oil: This is our secret weapon for that beautiful golden sear. It adds flavor and ensures everything crisps up nicely.
Optional: Steamed broccoli and cooked rice: If you want to round out the meal, these are great options. I love broccoli for that extra veggie goodness, and rice is perfect for soaking up any juices.
Is Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health!
Chicken breasts: A great source of lean protein, chicken breasts are fantastic for muscle building and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Cream cheese: While rich and creamy, it’s also—dare I say—moderate in protein and calcium. Just keep an eye on your portion sizes!
Fresh parsley and green onions: These herbs pack in vitamins and can contribute to overall health. Plus, they spruce up any dish with freshness!
Of course, if you’re watching your fat intake, you may want to moderate the cream cheese or opt for a lighter version. And if gluten is a concern, you might consider gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How to Make Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken?
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how you can make this delightful dish:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Grab each chicken breast and, using a sharp knife, slice into the thickest part to create a pocket (but don’t cut all the way through!).
4. Stuff each chicken breast with your decadent cream cheese mixture. If needed, use toothpicks to seal the opening.
5. Spread the breadcrumbs out in a shallow dish. Roll each stuffed chicken breast in the breadcrumbs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once bubbly and hot, carefully add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden.
7. Transfer those golden beauties into a baking dish and pop them into the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
8. Once done, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing (to keep all that flavor inside). If you’re in the mood, serve them alongside some steamed broccoli and rice!
Extra Sassy Serving Suggestions!
Feeling adventurous? You can totally jazz up the cream cheese filling by adding in some fresh herbs like thyme or dill. Trust me, it elevates the flavor! And if you want to take this dish from great to spectacular, why not serve it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables? It makes for a beautiful presentation and a balanced meal.
I can just see you now, diving into this delightful dish. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try, and when you do, please let me know how it turns out. I promise you’ll impress anyone lucky enough to sit at your table. Happy cooking, my friend!
