Description
Delicious chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil, coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, pan-seared to a golden crisp, then baked with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Stuffing
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Breading and Coating
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
Toppings and Cooking
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken after searing.
- Prepare Stuffing Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Create Chicken Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into the center of each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff Chicken Breasts: Spoon the cheese mixture into each chicken pocket, filling them generously. Secure openings with toothpicks if needed to prevent filling from leaking out.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each stuffed chicken breast first in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and develop a crust.
- Add Sauce and Toppings: Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese for a bubbly, cheesy finish.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese topping is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks carefully before serving to avoid any accidents. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy stuffed chicken Parmesan!
Notes
- Use toothpicks to secure stuffed chicken breasts to prevent filling from spilling during cooking.
- Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- For extra flavor, add fresh basil or Italian herbs to the marinara sauce before topping.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs can be substituted with panko for a crunchier texture.
- Allow chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking for juices to redistribute.
