Imagine biting into a crispy chicken breast stuffed with gooey cheese and savory marinara sauce. The delightful aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds before you even take a bite. That’s right; we’re about to embark on a culinary adventure with Chicken Parmesan Stuffed that promises to elevate your dinner game!
Now picture this: it’s a cozy Friday evening. You’ve had a week that felt like it was straight out of a sitcom — the kind where the protagonist is always one mishap away from chaos. What better way to unwind than by whipping up something comforting and delicious? This recipe is sure to impress even the toughest food critics in your life—your family and friends!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Chicken Parmesan Stuffed brings ease and comfort together in one dish
- With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have in your pantry!
I still recall the first time I made this dish; my kids’ eyes lit up as they took their first bites!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 chicken breasts for the perfect serving size; adjust according to your needs.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella for that oozy texture when melted; it makes all the difference.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated or shaved works well here; don’t skimp on this ingredient for maximum flavor!
- Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade; either way, choose something you absolutely love!
- Bread Crumbs: Panko bread crumbs provide an extra crunch; I usually mix them with Italian seasoning.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: These add a lovely aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavors during baking and keeps everything moist.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t forget to taste!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preparation Begins: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab an oven-safe baking dish, adding a splash of olive oil at the bottom to prevent sticking.
Pound It Out: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them until they are about half an inch thick — this ensures even cooking.
Add the Goodies: Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over both sides of each breast. Next, layer fresh mozzarella slices on one side and spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over it.
Roll It Up: Carefully fold each chicken breast like a burrito. Secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine if needed—like giving those little guys a snug hug!
Dress It Up: In one bowl, combine panko crumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and some Italian seasoning. Coat each rolled-up breast generously in this mixture — it’s like putting on armor for our delicious warriors heading into battle.
Bake Time: Place these beauties seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Drizzle more marinara sauce on top before sliding them into your preheated oven. Bake for around 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
As they cook, prepare yourself for magical aromas filling your kitchen!
Once out of the oven, allow them to rest for about five minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for that Instagram-ready finish.
And there you have it! A delightfully comforting meal that not only nourishes but brings smiles around the dinner table! Enjoy every cheesy bite while soaking up compliments like a sponge!
You Must Know
- Chicken Parmesan Stuffed is not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser
- The crispy coating paired with savory stuffing can transform a simple dinner into a delightful feast
- Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then prepare the sauce while it cooks. Assemble everything together for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out mozzarella with provolone or add spinach to the stuffing for an extra nutritional boost. Experimentation is key to finding your favorite version.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For an ultra-crispy coating, double-bread your chicken by dipping it in egg twice before breadcrumbs
- Make sure to let the stuffed chicken rest before slicing for perfect presentation
- Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor enhancement that truly elevates this dish
Memories of my family gathering around the table, sharing stories while devouring Chicken Parmesan Stuffed, highlight why I love this recipe so much.
FAQ
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Stuffed?
Yes, it freezes well; just wrap tightly and store for up to three months.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; it should register 165°F at the thickest part.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken Parmesan Stuffed?
Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Delight in this Chicken Parmesan Stuffed recipe featuring tender chicken breasts filled with melty mozzarella and savory marinara, a comforting dish perfect for impressing at any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh mozzarella cheese
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Marinara sauce
- Panko bread crumbs
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to ½ inch thick.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper, then layer mozzarella and marinara on one side of each breast.
- Roll the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Mix panko crumbs with parmesan and Italian seasoning, then coat each rolled chicken piece in the mixture.
- Place seam-side down in the baking dish, drizzle with additional marinara, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For extra crispiness, double-bread your chicken by dipping in egg before coating with breadcrumbs. - Feel free to substitute mozzarella with provolone or add spinach for added nutrition. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.