Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden chicken breast and revealing a creamy, nutty surprise that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Roasted Hazelnut Stuffed Chicken is not just a meal; it's a gastronomic journey that combines the rich, earthy flavors of roasted hazelnuts with tender, juicy chicken in a way that will have your family and guests begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup roasted hazelnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a nice golden color.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped roasted hazelnuts, cream cheese, and chopped parsley. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and form a cohesive stuffing.
- Take each chicken breast and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in each breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the hazelnut mixture, ensuring that the stuffing is evenly distributed. You can use toothpicks to secure the openings if needed, preventing the stuffing from spilling out during cooking.
- Heat the 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 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
- Once the chicken is browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
- 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 stuffed chicken breasts and serve them warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your Roasted Hazelnut Stuffed Chicken!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees both safety and optimal juiciness.
- Prep Like a Pro: When creating the pocket in the chicken breast, use a sharp knife and a steady hand. Cut slowly and carefully to avoid splitting the chicken completely.
- Nut Preparation: Toast the hazelnuts briefly before chopping to enhance their natural flavor and add an extra layer of depth to your stuffing.
- Moisture Matters: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is as succulent as possible.
- Presentation Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra chopped hazelnuts to add a pop of color and texture to your final dish.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the hazelnut stuffing and stuff the chicken breasts a few hours in advance, making dinner preparation a breeze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
