Creamy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Mushroom Sauce

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Mushroom Sauce. This dish combines tender chicken breasts filled with gooey mozzarella or Gruyère cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and cream cheese. The chicken is then topped with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, making it the perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a family feast, this recipe will delight everyone at the table.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms (reserve some for the sauce)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Mushroom Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling (5 minutes)

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese, sautéed mushrooms, cream cheese, and minced garlic.
2. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken (10 minutes)

1. Use a sharp knife to carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing through the thickest part, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
2. Stuff the chicken pockets with the prepared filling, dividing it evenly among the chicken breasts.
3. Use toothpicks to secure the edges if necessary.
4. Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken (10 minutes)

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Mushroom Sauce (10 minutes)

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the reserved mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the flavor.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard, whisking until the sauce is smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Cook (10 minutes)

1. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top.
2. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low.
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve (5 minutes)

1. Carefully remove any toothpicks from the chicken breasts.
2. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Serve warm with the creamy mushroom sauce poured over the chicken.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this flavorful dish with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a side of garlic butter rice. For a lighter meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.

This recipe for Creamy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Mushroom Sauce is a luxurious yet simple dish that combines rich flavors and textures to create a memorable meal. The creamy filling and sauce complement the juicy chicken perfectly, making it a versatile recipe suitable for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!