If you are on the hunt for a dish that brings together rich flavors, creamy textures, and a satisfying heartiness, then this Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe is the perfect go-to. The tender chicken breasts are generously filled with a luscious blend of garlic, butter, mushrooms, and three types of cheese, creating a mouthwatering experience in every bite. This recipe is a delightful way to elevate a simple dinner into something truly special without too much fuss, making it a favorite for weeknight meals or even for impressing guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Each item plays a crucial role, from the creamy cheeses adding richness to the earthy mushrooms bringing just the right depth of flavor, all balanced with fresh herbs and aromatic garlic.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base for the stuffing.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in searing the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms for perfect browning.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and enhances the garlic flavor for the mushroom filling.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Brings earthiness and texture to complement the creamy cheeses.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, savory punch that lifts the stuffing’s flavor.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together smoothly.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey stretch and mild creaminess.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, salty contrast that brightens the filling.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses a subtle herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with chicken and mushrooms.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a lovely fresh color and mild herbal flavor at the end.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the mushroom filling
Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they’re soft and nicely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once the mushrooms have released their moisture and developed a golden color, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. This mixture sets the foundation for the delicious stuffing.
Step 2: Combine the cheeses and seasonings
Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking gently until the cheeses melt and everything melds into a creamy, flavorful filling. This rich mixture is what will make your chicken irresistibly tasty and flavorful.
Step 3: Stuff the chicken breasts
Carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting a slit through the middle, being cautious not to cut all the way through. Spoon the cheesy mushroom mixture into the pockets, packing them well so each chicken piece bursts with cheesy mushroom goodness.
Step 4: Sear the stuffed chicken
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and squirrel down the heat to medium-high. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This step locks in the juices and creates a lovely texture contrast before baking.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Transfer the seared stuffed chicken breasts to a baking dish and place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and tender while melding all the flavors together.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only brings a pop of vibrant green color but also adds a fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. You could also add a light drizzle of melted butter infused with garlic to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread to soak up the luscious juices. For a lighter option, serve with steamed asparagus, sautéed greens, or a crisp garden salad to add fresh, vibrant contrasts to the warm, comforting chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, slice the stuffed chicken breasts crosswise to reveal the cheesy mushroom swirl inside. Arrange the slices on a platter and garnish with parsley and a few extra mushroom slices sautéed in garlic butter. This works wonderfully for dinner parties or family gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken close to the stuffing’s moisture helps maintain juiciness.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, you can freeze the cooked stuffed chicken breasts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer-safe container. They stay good for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To retain moisture, reheat your leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through. Microwaving is quicker but can dry out the chicken, so covering with a damp paper towel helps keep it tender and cheesy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix cremini, button, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms. Each variety will add slightly different flavors and textures, making the stuffing uniquely delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese and mozzarella. Just be sure to choose ones that melt well to keep the creamy texture.
How thick should the chicken breasts be for stuffing?
Medium-thick chicken breasts work best, around 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. If they’re too thick, consider butterflying further or pounding them slightly to ensure even cooking and easier stuffing.
Can I prepare this recipe without baking?
Baking finishes the cooking process for stuffed chicken nicely, but you could cook the stuffed breasts covered on low heat in a skillet – just make sure they reach 165°F internally to be safe.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir beautifully complements the creamy cheeses and earthy mushrooms without overpowering the delicate flavors of the chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe is a true winner that brings comfort and elegance to your dining table with minimal fuss. Its rich, creamy filling and perfectly cooked chicken make it an unforgettable meal to enjoy any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to make it and experience all the decadent flavors packed into every bite!
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Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken recipe features juicy, tender chicken breasts packed with a rich, flavorful mixture of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and three cheeses. The chicken is first seared to a golden brown on the stovetop, then baked to perfection, resulting in a satisfying and elegant dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for searing)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Stuffing
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken after searing.
- Sauté Mushrooms: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are softened and nicely browned, which brings out their savory flavor.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, careful not to burn it.
- Make Cheese Mixture: Stir in cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, dried thyme, salt, and pepper into the mushroom mixture. Cook until all the cheeses melt and combine well. Remove the mixture from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Chicken Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without slicing all the way through, creating a cavity for the stuffing.
- Stuff Chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket generously with the cheesy mushroom mixture, pressing gently to keep the filling inside.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a bit more olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a golden-brown crust, which locks in juices and adds depth of flavor.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the seared stuffed chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness, and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- To check doneness, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Feel free to swap out mozzarella for cheddar or another favorite melting cheese if desired.
- For an extra crispy crust, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes after baking but watch closely to prevent burning.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese beforehand to ensure it blends smoothly into the stuffing mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
