If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipe, look no further than mushroom stuffed chicken breast. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. The combination of juicy chicken breast, garlicky mushrooms, and melted cheese is sure to please everyone’s taste buds.
To make mushroom stuffed chicken breast, you’ll need just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen skills. First, you’ll need to prepare the mushroom filling by cooking the mushrooms and deglazing the pan with a bit of wine. Once the mushrooms are cooled, you’ll add cheese and season to taste. Then, you’ll stuff the chicken breasts with the cream cheese mixture and secure with toothpicks. Finally, you’ll bake the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, mushroom stuffed chicken breast is a great recipe to have in your arsenal. It’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices, and it’s a great way to get a serving of vegetables in with your meal. Plus, it looks impressive on the plate and is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients
- 2 x 220g / 7oz chicken breast , skinless boneless (Note 1)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 200g / 7 oz mushrooms , sliced 3mm (1/8″) thick (~2 heaped cups)
- 2 garlic cloves , finely minced
- 1/2 tsp thyme leaves (Note 2)
- 2 cups baby spinach (Note 3)
- 80 g / 3oz mozzarella , sliced (or other melting cheese)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C/390°F (180°F fan).
- Cut pockets into each chicken breast, being sure not to cut all the way through (see photos in post). Cut on the side with the fold in the meat, to keep the smooth side intact.
- Season the inside and outside of the chicken with half the salt and pepper.
- Mushroom filling: Melt butter in a heavy based oven proof skillet over high heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes until they start to turn pretty golden. Then add garlic, thyme, remaining salt and pepper and continue cooking for a further 2 minutes until mushrooms are nice and golden.
- Add spinach: Add baby spinach and stir until wilted – about 30 seconds.
- Stuff mushroom mixture into the pocket of each chicken, then top with cheese.
- Seal with toothpicks as best you can – it doesn’t need to be fully sealed like we do with Chicken Kiev. Just mostly sealed.
- Sear chicken: Give the pan a quick wipe with paper towels. Heat oil over medium high heat. Sear each side of the chicken breast for 1 1/2 minutes until golden.
- Bake 15 minutes: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken is 65°C/149°F (chicken flesh, not the mushroom filling).
- Rest 5 minutes: Remove from tray onto a plate, loosely cover with foil and rest for 5 minutes. Serve! Pictured in post with easy creamy Baked Lemon Herb Risotto and baby spinach with Balsamic Dressing.
Notes
1. Chicken breast is required for this recipe as it’s the right shape to cut pockets and the right size to hold enough filling. Recipe won’t work with thighs or other cuts of chicken.
2. Other herbs – 1/2 tsp dried thyme or other dried herbs of choice. Otherwise, chives, parsley, rosemary (1/2 tsp chopped), oregano or marjoram.
3. Baby spinach – Substitute with chopped / sliced English spinach, silverbeet / Swiss chard, kale or even cabbage.
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 2
Plating and Garnish
Once your mushroom stuffed chicken breasts are cooked to perfection, it’s time to plate them up and add some garnish. Here are some tips to help you create a beautiful and appetizing presentation:
Plating
- Place the mushroom stuffed chicken breast in the center of the plate.
- If you have sliced the chicken breast, fan the slices out to create an attractive display.
- Spoon any leftover sauce from the pan over the chicken breast.
- Add a side dish, such as roasted vegetables or a salad, to complete the meal.
Garnish
- Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, over the chicken breast for a pop of color and flavor.
- Add a lemon wedge to the plate to provide a burst of acidity that complements the richness of the dish.
- For a more elegant presentation, place a sprig of fresh herbs or a decorative vegetable, such as a carrot curl or a cherry tomato, on top of the chicken breast.
Remember, the garnish should complement the flavors of the dish and enhance its visual appeal. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different garnishes to find the perfect combination for your mushroom stuffed chicken breast.
Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve cooked up your delicious Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast, you may be wondering what to serve it with. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
1. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a great side dish for Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast. You can use any vegetables you like, but some good options include:
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Zucchini
- Bell peppers
To roast your vegetables, simply toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with just about anything. To make them, simply boil some potatoes until they’re soft, then mash them with butter, milk, and roasted garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Salad
A simple salad is a great way to balance out the richness of the Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast. You can use any greens you like, but some good options include:
- Arugula
- Spinach
- Mixed greens
Toss your greens with a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey.
No matter what you choose to serve with your Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast, be sure to enjoy it with a nice glass of white wine or a cold beer.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Once you have prepared your Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast, you may have leftovers that you want to store for later. Here are some tips on how to properly store and reheat your chicken:
Storage Tips
- Store your leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to consume it within 3-4 days.
- If you want to store the chicken for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Label the container with the date so you can keep track of how long it has been stored.
Reheating Tips
- To reheat the chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until it is heated through.
- You can also reheat the chicken in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave it on high for 1-2 minutes or until it is heated through.
- Do not reheat the chicken more than once. Reheating it multiple times can cause it to dry out and lose its flavor.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast for days to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I ensure the chicken breast remains moist when baking it with a mushroom stuffing?
To ensure that the chicken breast remains moist when baking it with a mushroom stuffing, you can try brining the chicken breast before baking it. Brining involves soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking. This process helps to retain moisture in the chicken breast, resulting in a juicy and tender meat. You can also try basting the chicken with melted butter or olive oil during the baking process.
What are some healthy ingredients to include in a mushroom stuffing for chicken breast?
There are many healthy ingredients that you can include in a mushroom stuffing for chicken breast. Some options include spinach, kale, onions, garlic, and bell peppers. You can also add quinoa or brown rice for extra fiber and protein.
What is the simplest method to prepare a mushroom stuffed chicken breast?
The simplest method to prepare a mushroom stuffed chicken breast is to butterfly the chicken breast and stuff it with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and cheese. Then, bake it in the oven until cooked through. You can also add some herbs and spices to the stuffing mixture for extra flavor.
Can you suggest a mushroom cream sauce recipe to accompany stuffed chicken breast?
Sure! A simple mushroom cream sauce can be made by sautéing sliced mushrooms and minced garlic in butter until tender. Then, add heavy cream and simmer until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and any herbs of your choice.
Which cheeses pair well with mushrooms for stuffing into chicken breast?
Cheeses that pair well with mushrooms for stuffing into chicken breast include mozzarella, parmesan, and goat cheese. These cheeses complement the earthy flavor of mushrooms and add a creamy texture to the stuffing.
What are some quick and easy side dishes to serve with mushroom stuffed chicken breast?
Some quick and easy side dishes to serve with mushroom stuffed chicken breast include roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. You can also serve a simple salad or a side of quinoa or brown rice for extra fiber and protein.