Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden chicken breast and discovering a creamy, sun-kissed filling that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast isn't just a meal—it's a flavor adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coastline. With a luxurious blend of tangy goat cheese, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, this recipe promises to elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent in just 45 minutes.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by placing them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a space to hold the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket with the goat cheese mixture. Use your fingers or a spoon to ensure the filling is packed in well, but be careful not to overfill, as it may spill out during cooking.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
- Once the chicken is browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- After removing the skillet from the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Slice the chicken breasts in half to reveal the delicious goat cheese filling. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired meal!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Pocket Technique: When creating the chicken breast pocket, use a sharp knife and cut horizontally, leaving the sides intact to prevent the filling from leaking.
- Cheese Consistency: Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before mixing to ensure smoother blending with other ingredients.
- Searing Secrets: Use a hot skillet and don't move the chicken immediately after placing it in the pan. This helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Resting Matters: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Ingredient Quality: Use fresh basil and high-quality goat cheese for the most vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 120mg
