Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the best of Italian flavors in one delicious package! Our Mozzarella Pepperoni Stuffed Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that promises to impress your family and friends. Picture succulent chicken breasts, perfectly stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni, all baked to golden perfection. This mouthwatering recipe is not only easy to make but also takes just 35 minutes from prep to plate! Are you ready to dive into this cheesy, meaty delight? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
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 cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Start at the thickest part and cut horizontally, being careful not to slice all the way through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket with the mozzarella and pepperoni mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if necessary, preventing the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 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 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Carefully remove the toothpicks from the stuffed chicken breasts before serving. Slice the chicken if desired and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or additional Italian seasoning if you like.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. They are easier to stuff and cook evenly.
- Create a Deep Pocket: When cutting the pocket in the chicken breasts, make sure it's deep enough to hold a generous amount of the filling without cutting all the way through.
- Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken in a hot skillet before baking adds a beautiful golden crust and enhances the flavor, so don’t rush this step!
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and moist.
- Get Creative with Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the cheese mixture for an extra flavor boost. Fresh basil or oregano would complement the Italian theme beautifully!
- Serve with Style: For a stunning presentation, slice the stuffed chicken breasts and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra Italian seasoning for that restaurant-worthy touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 135mg
