Cheese Stuffed Chicken Parmesan That’s Easier (and Cheesier) Than You Think
If you’re a fan of classic Chicken Parmesan, you’re in for a treat with this cheesy, stuffed version! Chicken Parmesan has long been a go-to comfort food for families worldwide.
But what if we took it to the next level by stuffing the chicken with a rich, melty cheese blend?
Get ready for a mouthwatering dish that’s crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside, and topped off with savory marinara sauce and even more cheese. Let’s dive right in!
Ingredients
You probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen, but here’s a quick rundown for the perfect Cheese Stuffed Chicken Parmesan:
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For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (fresh is best!)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese (optional for added creaminess)
- Fresh basil and parsley (chopped for flavor)
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For the Breading:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch or regular)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (for that classic herby flavor)
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For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
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For Topping:
- Extra mozzarella cheese (for that glorious melty topping)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
First, slice your boneless chicken breasts horizontally to create a pocket for the cheese filling. If you’re unfamiliar with butterflying chicken, don’t worry – it’s easy!
Slice the chicken horizontally carefully, leaving one side intact so it opens like a book. You want enough room for all that cheese!
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil and parsley. This adds a touch of fresh flavor inside the chicken before you stuff it.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling
Now for the best part – the cheese! Combine the mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta (if you’re using it). If you want to take it further, mix in a little garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
This filling will melt beautifully, so don’t be afraid to load it up with cheesy goodness!
3. Stuff the Chicken
Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture. You don’t want to overstuff, but make sure there’s enough cheese in there to make each bite deliciously gooey.
Once stuffed, you can use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the chicken and keep the cheese in place while cooking. No cheese left behind!
4. Bread the Chicken
Now, we’ll bread the chicken to give it that crispy, golden coating. Start by dredging the stuffed chicken in flour, dip it into the beaten egg, and coat it with breadcrumbs.
Double-breading is a great option for extra crunch. For a thicker coating, repeat the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs process.
5. Cook the Chicken
Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until they’re golden brown. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked yet; they’ll finish in the oven.
Once browned, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melting beautifully.
6. Prepare the Marinara Sauce
While the chicken is baking, you can make the marinara sauce. Heat some olive oil in a pan and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 10 minutes so it’s nice and warm when the chicken is ready.
7. Assemble the Dish
Once your chicken is out of the oven, it’s time to top it with marinara sauce and more cheese! Spoon marinara sauce over the chicken, then add a generous layer of mozzarella cheese.
Put it back in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
When it’s done, garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Now, it’s time to serve this cheesy masterpiece! You can enjoy your Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Parmesan on its own, but it pairs perfectly with a side of pasta—think spaghetti or penne.
Want to keep things lighter? Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. And if you’re craving some extra indulgence, a loaf of garlic bread will complete the meal.
Tips and Variations
- Add-ins: You can get creative with your stuffing! Add spinach, roasted red peppers, or even a bit of prosciutto for extra flavor.
- Non-dairy option: Use plant-based cheeses like vegan mozzarella and Parmesan for a dairy-free version. Just as delicious!
- Make-ahead: This dish can be prepped ahead of time. Stuff and bread the chicken, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. You can even make the marinara sauce in advance!
- Double-bread for extra crunch: If you love a super crispy crust, use the double-breading method. Trust me, it’s worth it!
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and will stay juicy and tender. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs might take a little longer than breasts.
Q: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
A: Yes! Store-bought marinara is a time-saver, and plenty of great options exist. However, making your marinara sauce is easy and adds an extra homemade touch. Either way, your dish will be delicious.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The easiest way is to use a meat thermometer. To be fully cooked, chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just cut into the thickest part of the chicken—the juices should run clear, and the cheese should melt inside!
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes! This dish freezes well. Let the chicken cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated.
Conclusion
Cheese-stuffed chicken Parmesan is a surefire way to elevate your dinner game. With cheesy goodness inside and out, a crispy exterior, and a hearty marinara sauce, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is bound to impress. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, crispy, comforting masterpiece!