Get ready to transform an ordinary chicken dinner into a gourmet masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Pesto Stuffed Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines the rich, herbaceous flavors of authentic pesto with tender, juicy chicken and melted mozzarella cheese. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick and impressive dinner or a food enthusiast craving something extraordinary, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and deliver restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pesto
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by creating a pocket: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally through the thickest part of each chicken breast, creating a deep pocket without cutting all the way through. Be sure to keep the sides intact.
- Season both the outside and inside of the chicken breast pockets with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Mix the pesto and shredded mozzarella cheese together in a small bowl, creating a creamy and flavorful filling.
- Carefully stuff each chicken breast pocket with the pesto and mozzarella mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed and packed gently to prevent spillage during cooking.
- Secure the open edges of each stuffed chicken breast with toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the pan is hot before adding the chicken.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the toothpicks before serving and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves or additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips
- Knife Technique Matters: When creating the pocket in the chicken breast, use a sharp knife and a steady hand. Cut slowly and horizontally to ensure an even pocket without piercing through the sides.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) for food safety. This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without being dry.
- Prevent Filling Leakage: Secure the chicken pockets with toothpicks and avoid overstuffing to minimize the risk of the delicious pesto-cheese mixture spilling out during cooking.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to use homemade or store-bought pesto. For an extra flavor kick, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts to your filling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 125mg
