A stuffing-stuffed chicken breast is the ultimate dinner upgrade. Imagine a tender, juicy chicken breast, loaded with a savory stuffing that keeps every bite full of flavor. This dish isn’t just about eating well; it’s about indulging in a meal that feels both comforting and special.
This recipe is a go-to when you want something impressive yet simple. The chicken is first seared to get a golden crust, then baked until perfectly cooked, with the stuffing inside staying moist and flavorful. Whether you’re filling it with a classic bread stuffing or a rich blend of cheese and herbs, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
For a complete meal, pair this stuffed chicken with a crisp Garden Salad to balance out the richness, or enjoy it with a warm slice of Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread. And don’t forget to end on a sweet note with Apple Crisp for dessert.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- Flavorful Filling: The stuffing inside keeps the chicken moist and adds a burst of taste with every bite.
- Simple Elegance: It looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make—perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
- Customizable: You can change up the stuffing to suit your taste, making it a versatile recipe.
- Great for Sharing: It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and makes for an excellent family meal.
Overview: How To Make Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe?
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
Start by preparing the stuffing. You can use store-bought stuffing mix or make your own. If using store-bought, follow the package instructions to prepare it. If making your own, sauté 1 cup of diced onions and 2 cloves of minced garlic in 2 tablespoons of butter until softened. Add 4 cups of cubed bread, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of dried sage, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Fill each pocket with the prepared stuffing, pressing it down gently to pack it in. You can use toothpicks to secure the openings if needed. Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you like.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the stuffing is browning too quickly, cover the skillet with foil.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks. Slice and serve the stuffed chicken breasts with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your flavorful and hearty meal!
Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 1½ cups Chicken broth
- 6 oz Stove Top Stuffing one box or one packet from a twin pack
- ½ cup Milk
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 24 oz Chicken breasts 4 medium-sized boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp Onion powder
- ½ cup White onion optional, diced
- ½ cup Celery optional
- ½ cup dried Cranberries optional
- Gravy optional, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C/Gas Mark 5). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Stuffing: Heat 1½ cups of chicken broth in the microwave for 2 minutes or in a small saucepan until it’s nearly boiling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the hot broth, 2 tablespoons of butter, and ½ cup of milk. If using, add ½ cup of diced white onion, ½ cup of celery, and/or ½ cup of dried cranberries. Mix everything well and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each breast ¾ of the way through (like butterflying) to create a pocket for the stuffing. Be sure not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon ¼ of the stuffing mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Place the stuffed breasts in the prepared baking dish. Season each breast with the salt, pepper, and onion powder mixture.
- Bake the Chicken: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve immediately, with gravy if desired.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the chicken breasts ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes dinner prep even quicker!
- Moist Chicken: For extra juicy chicken, try brining the chicken breasts in a saltwater solution for 30 minutes before stuffing. This helps keep the meat tender and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 482 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 46g |
| Protein | 41g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 123mg |
| Sodium | 1482mg |
Bringing You More Chicken Favorites from My Kitchen
- Crispy Breaded Chinese Chicken
- Maple Glazed Chicken Recipe
- Shredded Chicken Fajitas Recipe
- Chicken Parm Sandwich Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions for Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe!
What Kind of Stuffing Can I Use for the Chicken Breast?
You can use any type of stuffing you prefer, such as traditional bread stuffing, cornbread stuffing, or even rice-based stuffing. Pre-made stuffing mixes work well, or you can make your own from scratch with ingredients like breadcrumbs, herbs, onions, and celery.
How Do I Keep the Chicken Breast Moist While Baking?
To keep the chicken breast moist, make sure not to overcook it. Baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes usually works well, but using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) is key. Covering the chicken with foil during the first part of baking can also help retain moisture.
Can I Prepare the Stuffed Chicken Breasts Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days or special occasions. Just be sure to cover them tightly to keep them fresh.
What Sides Go Well with Stuffing Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing stuffed chicken breasts pair well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with cranberry sauce or gravy for an extra touch of flavor.