Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a dish where chicken breasts are stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese and other flavorful ingredients, such as spinach or garlic. The chicken is then cooked, resulting in a juicy, tender exterior with a creamy filling. It’s a perfect way to enjoy chicken with a rich, cheesy twist.
The total time to prepare and cook Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is about 40 to 45 minutes. This includes prepping the chicken, making the filling, searing, and baking. It’s a relatively quick and easy recipe that can be made in less than an hour.
The creamy, savory filling inside the tender chicken breast creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s easy to customize with different herbs or vegetables, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether paired with a simple side or served on its own, this dish offers a rich, comforting meal that satisfies both the palate and the stomach. The crispy outside and creamy center are always a hit with family and guests.
Why You’ll Love It Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Flavorful Filling: The cream cheese stuffing adds a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complements the tender chicken. It elevates the dish with a subtle tanginess, making every bite unforgettable.
- Quick and Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and fast, requiring minimal ingredients. You can easily prepare it for a busy weeknight dinner or impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable to Your Taste: Whether you add spinach, herbs, or bacon, this recipe offers plenty of room for creativity. Adjust the flavors to your liking for a personalized, delicious meal.
Ingredient Notes for a Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Chicken Breasts: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are the base for this recipe. They are easy to stuff and cook evenly, providing a juicy, tender result.
- Cream Cheese: The creamy texture of cream cheese makes it a perfect filling for the chicken, offering richness and flavor. It also helps keep the chicken moist during cooking.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a healthy touch and balances the richness of the cream cheese. It’s packed with vitamins and gives the dish a pop of color.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella brings a mild, melty texture to the stuffing, complementing the cream cheese and spinach for a gooey, flavorful bite.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with savory warmth. It enhances the overall flavor of the stuffing and adds an aromatic quality.
- Dried Thyme: Thyme adds an earthy, herby taste that pairs well with chicken and complements the creamy filling.
- Black Pepper: A sprinkle of black pepper gives the dish a slight kick, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
- Salt: Salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients. Be careful not to overdo it, as other ingredients also add saltiness.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing or drizzling on top of the chicken. It adds a healthy fat and helps create a crisp, golden crust.
- Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese provides a sharp, salty contrast to the cream cheese and mozzarella. It’s often sprinkled on top for a flavorful, crispy finish.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch
When preparing cream cheese stuffed chicken breast, it’s essential to start with the right chicken. Choose boneless, skinless breasts for a tender result. This makes it easier to stuff and cook evenly. Don’t forget to season the chicken with your favourite herbs and spices for extra flavour.
Next, ensure your cream cheese mixture is smooth. Add ingredients like garlic, spinach, or herbs to the cream cheese for more taste. You can also use shredded cheese or bacon bits to make the filling even richer. This will elevate the dish and add layers of flavour.
For a crispy texture, bake the stuffed chicken at 375°F. This will cook the chicken thoroughly while giving it a golden, crispy exterior. If you prefer, you can also pan-sear the chicken for an extra crunch, ensuring it’s cooked through without drying out the meat.
Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Variations
There are many ways to personalize cream cheese stuffed chicken breast to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Spinach and Artichoke: Add spinach and artichoke hearts to the cream cheese filling for a Mediterranean twist.
- Bacon: Mix crispy bacon into the cream cheese mixture for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for a fragrant addition to the stuffing.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: For a tangy flavor, incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the filling.
You can also try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to vary the flavor. Don’t hesitate to get creative!
How to Serve Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Cream cheese stuffed chicken breast is versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas for sides and sauces to complement the dish:
- Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or sautéed green beans for a balanced meal.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this rich and creamy chicken dish.
- Potatoes: Mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or a baked potato are excellent sides for soaking up the creamy filling.
- Sauces: You can drizzle a creamy garlic sauce or a tangy barbecue sauce over the chicken for added flavor.
For a lighter version, serve it with a side of quinoa or a mixed greens salad.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store your cream cheese stuffed chicken breast:
- Refrigeration: Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- Freezing: If you want to keep the dish for longer, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
FAQs About Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
How do you make cream cheese stuffed chicken breast?
To make this dish, simply stuff the chicken breast with cream cheese and your favorite seasonings, then bake or cook it in a pan. The result is a juicy and tender chicken with a creamy center.
Can I add other ingredients to the cream cheese filling?
Yes, you can add ingredients like spinach, garlic, herbs, or even shredded cheese to the filling. These additions will enhance the flavor and make it even more delicious.
How long does it take to cook cream cheese stuffed chicken breast?
Cooking this dish typically takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breast. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I make cream cheese stuffed chicken breast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!
Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to cook the chicken properly.
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal cut along the side of each chicken breast, creating a pocket for the filling. Be careful not to slice all the way through the chicken. Repeat for all the chicken breasts.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, spinach (if using), minced garlic, shredded mozzarella cheese, thyme, pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined. This mixture will be your stuffing.
- Stuff the Chicken Breasts: Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture, ensuring it’s well-filled. You may use toothpicks to seal the edges and prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This step gives the chicken a crispy outer layer.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices and keeps the chicken moist.
