There’s something magical about serving a dish that not only looks stunning but tastes just as incredible. This Unique and Delicious Stuffed Chicken recipe takes tender chicken fillets and transforms them into a flavorful masterpiece. Whether it’s a family dinner or a celebration meal, this dish will leave everyone at the table impressed and satisfied.
Why This Stuffed Chicken Recipe is Special
Have you ever taken a bite of something so perfectly seasoned, so wonderfully stuffed, that it felt like a culinary hug? This recipe offers exactly that. The juicy chicken pairs with a rich and creamy stuffing of vegetables, herbs, and cheese, creating a meal that’s wholesome yet indulgent. It’s simple enough for beginners to tackle but impressive enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
For Seasoning the Chicken
- 12 chicken fillets (700g)
- Salt, to taste
- Spicy paprika, to taste
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
For the Stuffing
- 1 tablespoon butter
- A drizzle of olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Bell pepper, to taste, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Spicy paprika, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, to taste
- Fresh coriander, chopped, to taste
- 4 tablespoons crème fraîche
- 50g mozzarella cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
- Place the chicken fillets in a large bowl.
- Add salt, spicy paprika, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
- Mix well to ensure the fillets are evenly coated. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the stuffing.
2. Prepare the Stuffing
- Heat butter and a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until aromatic.
- Stir in the chopped onion and cook until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chopped bell pepper and grated carrots. Season with salt and spicy paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Mix in chopped parsley and coriander. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Once cooled, stir in crème fraîche and grated mozzarella cheese until fully combined.
3. Stuff the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay the marinated chicken fillets flat on a cutting board.
- Spoon a portion of the stuffing mixture into the center of each fillet.
- Roll the fillets tightly around the stuffing and secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Bake the Chicken
- Arrange the stuffed chicken fillets seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to brown the tops, if desired.
5. Serve
- Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Arrange the stuffed chicken fillets on a serving platter and garnish with additional chopped parsley or coriander.
- Serve hot and enjoy your culinary creation!
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken
- Flatten the Fillets: For even cooking, use a meat mallet to gently pound the fillets to an even thickness before seasoning.
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overfilling the fillets to ensure they roll easily and the stuffing doesn’t spill out.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Grains: Serve alongside rice pilaf, quinoa, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Add Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a fresh green salad.
- Top with Sauce: A drizzle of garlic butter or creamy mushroom sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 35 g |
Carbohydrates | 7 g |
Fat | 15 g |
Sodium | 580 mg |
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of fillets?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and add an extra level of juiciness.
2. How can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the stuffed chicken fillets a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bake when ready.
3. Can I freeze stuffed chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed and uncooked fillets. Place them in a freezer-safe container and store for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
4. What other cheeses can I use?
You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Gouda, or feta for a unique twist.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy cream and cheese substitute.
6. How do I ensure the stuffing stays inside?
Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the fillets. Be sure not to overfill them to prevent spilling.
Final Thoughts
This Unique and Delicious Stuffed Chicken recipe is a true showstopper. With its tender chicken, creamy stuffing, and vibrant flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or hosting a special event, this dish guarantees to wow your guests.
PrintUnique and Delicious Stuffed Chicken: A Perfect Dish for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Unique and Delicious Stuffed Chicken combines tender, seasoned chicken fillets with a flavorful stuffing of vegetables, herbs, and melted cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s juicy, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and guarantees a memorable meal.
Ingredients
For Seasoning the Chicken:
- 12 chicken fillets (700g)
- Salt, to taste
- Spicy paprika, to taste
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
For the Stuffing:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- A drizzle of olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Bell pepper, to taste, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Spicy paprika, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, to taste
- Fresh coriander, chopped, to taste
- 4 tablespoons crème fraîche
- 50g mozzarella cheese, grated
Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken fillets with salt, spicy paprika, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
- Mix well to ensure the fillets are evenly coated. Set aside to marinate while preparing the stuffing.
2. Prepare the Stuffing
- Heat butter and a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped onion and cook until translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
- Add bell pepper and grated carrots. Season with salt and spicy paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in parsley, coriander, crème fraîche, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well and let cool slightly.
3. Stuff the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay the marinated chicken fillets flat on a cutting board. Spoon the stuffing mixture into the center of each fillet.
- Roll the chicken tightly around the stuffing and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
4. Bake the Chicken
- Arrange the stuffed chicken fillets seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to achieve a golden-brown top, if desired.
5. Serve
- Remove the toothpicks carefully before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or coriander for added color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Pound the Chicken: Use a meat mallet to ensure the fillets are even and easier to roll.
- Customizable Filling: Experiment with different cheeses, like feta or Gouda, for a unique flavor.
- Freeze for Later: Stuffed chicken fillets can be frozen before baking for a convenient make-ahead meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American