Description
This Italian Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of mozzarella cheese, basil pesto, and chopped tomatoes. Coated in a zesty Italian dressing blend and seared to lock in juices, then finished in the oven to perfection, this dish offers a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors that make for a satisfying and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Stuffing
- 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 1 Roma tomato, chopped
Coating
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (Olive Garden brand recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons oil (for searing)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare chicken: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Begin by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Carefully slice each chicken breast lengthwise, stopping before cutting entirely through to create a pocket for the stuffing.
- Make the stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, basil pesto, and chopped Roma tomato. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed. Divide this mixture evenly and stuff it into the pocket of each chicken breast.
- Prepare the coating mixture: In a separate medium bowl, mix together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Holding the chicken breasts together to keep the stuffing inside, dip each breast into the dressing mixture, coating all sides evenly.
- Sear the chicken: Heat a cast iron or ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear each side for about 3 minutes to develop a golden crust.
- Bake to finish cooking: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and juices run clear. Remove carefully from the oven and serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure not to cut all the way through the chicken breasts so the stuffing stays inside while cooking.
- Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures even cook time and prevents drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; an internal temperature of 165°F indicates the chicken is safely cooked.
- Leftover Italian dressing mixture can be used as a dipping sauce or salad dressing.
- To add extra flavor, consider garnishing with fresh basil or extra Parmesan before serving.
