Description
This Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian favorite by incorporating a creamy cheese filling inside tender chicken breasts. The result is a perfectly baked, golden, and cheesy main course that’s packed with flavor and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Sauce and Topping
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (for topping)
Other
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare for baking the chicken later.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until you achieve a smooth, even mixture.
- Stuff Chicken: Carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket evenly with the cream cheese mixture. If needed, secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside while cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes per side until each side is golden brown to lock in flavors and add texture.
- Assemble for Baking: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), and the cheese topping is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley if desired, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Pair this stuffed chicken with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- For additional flavor variety, try mixing sun-dried tomatoes or chopped spinach into the cream cheese filling.
- Ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free if you require a gluten-free dish.
- To prevent the filling from leaking, do not cut deep pockets in the chicken, and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
