Creamy Herb Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and indulgent dish that takes chicken breasts to a whole new level. Tender chicken is stuffed with a rich, creamy filling made from mozzarella cheese, fresh herbs, and a bit of garlic, then baked to perfection. The result is a juicy, flavorful chicken with a gooey, cheesy center that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
I first made this dish on a weeknight when I wanted something simple yet impressive. The creamy mozzarella filling paired beautifully with the tender, seasoned chicken, and it turned out to be a hit at the dinner table. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can switch up the herbs depending on your preferences, add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor, or even top it with a balsamic glaze for an extra layer of richness. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables or pasta, Creamy Herb Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Special occasions
- Date nights
- Meal prep
- Cheese lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Creamy Herb Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken will become a go-to dish in your kitchen:
- Flavor-Packed Stuffing: The creamy mozzarella, herbs, and garlic filling delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Juicy and Tender Chicken: The chicken stays moist and tender, thanks to the cheese stuffing and baking method.
- Perfectly Crispy Exterior: The outside of the chicken gets a satisfying crispiness while keeping the inside creamy.
- Simple and Quick: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Customizable Herbs: Feel free to swap out herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the stuffed chicken ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy filling is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with a salad or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
- Showstopper Presentation: The chicken looks elegant and impressive when served whole or sliced.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 28g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
The Mozzarella Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Ingredient Highlights
- Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a creamy, melty texture to the stuffing.
- Fresh Herbs: Infuse the filling with vibrant, aromatic flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a crispy, golden coating to the chicken, enhancing the overall texture.
- Cream Cheese: Contributes to the richness and creaminess of the stuffing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken Breasts: Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.
- Season Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Make the Mozzarella Filling:
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In a bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, parsley, basil, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Stuff the Chicken: Stuff each chicken breast with the mozzarella filling, ensuring it’s evenly distributed inside the pocket. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
Coat the Chicken:
- Prepare Coating: In a shallow dish, mix grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Coat Chicken: Roll each stuffed chicken breast in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat the chicken evenly.
Bake the Chicken:
- Bake: Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown on the outside.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the toothpicks and serve the chicken hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Creamy Herb Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken:
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- On a Bed of Greens: Place the chicken on a bed of fresh spinach or arugula for a light, refreshing meal.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting side dish.
- With a Salad: Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or garden salad for a lighter option.
- With Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
- For Meal Prep: Slice the chicken and use it for wraps or sandwiches throughout the week.
- With Pasta: Pair with pasta for a hearty Italian-inspired meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with a slice of garlic bread for extra flavor.
- As a Family Feast: Serve the stuffed chicken whole, perfect for slicing at the table.
- With Baked Potatoes: Serve with baked potatoes for a filling, satisfying meal.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Overstuff the Chicken: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts, as this can cause the filling to leak out during cooking.
- Check Chicken for Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used if fresh ones are unavailable.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juiciness.
- Use Toothpicks: Secure the chicken breasts with toothpicks if the stuffing is spilling out.
Recipe Variations
- Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken: Add spinach to the filling for a delicious, creamy addition.
- Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken: Wrap the stuffed chicken with crispy bacon for added flavor and texture.
- Pesto Stuffed Chicken: Add a spoonful of pesto to the filling for a unique twist.
- Spicy Stuffed Chicken: Add red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Chicken: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean touch.
- Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and Parmesan coating for a lower-carb alternative.
- Cheddar Stuffed Chicken: Swap out mozzarella for sharp cheddar cheese for a different flavor.
Special Equipment
- Baking Sheet: For baking the chicken to perfection.
- Toothpicks: To secure the chicken breasts and prevent the stuffing from falling out.
- Sharp Knife: To slice the chicken and create a pocket for stuffing.
- Shallow Dish: For coating the chicken with Parmesan and breadcrumbs.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed before preparing the recipe. - Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff and coat the chicken in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. - Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?
Yes, you can use provolone, cheddar, or any cheese you prefer. - How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. - Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicy with the filling. - What’s the best way to reheat the chicken?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. - Can I skip the Parmesan coating?
Yes, but the crispy exterior adds great texture and flavor. - Can I add more vegetables to the stuffing?
Yes, feel free to add finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the filling. - Can I make this recipe without the garlic?
Yes, you can omit the garlic or substitute it with garlic powder for a milder flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy Herb Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a succulent and flavorful dish that takes chicken to the next level. Tender chicken breasts are stuffed with a rich, creamy blend of mozzarella and fresh herbs, then baked to perfection, creating a mouthwatering, melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. The combination of gooey cheese and aromatic herbs makes this dish both indulgent and light, perfect for a special dinner or a comforting weeknight meal.
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks who still want a gourmet experience. You can customize the herb mixture to your liking, adding basil, thyme, or oregano, or even a hint of garlic for extra flavor. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes, Creamy Herb Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
I can’t wait to see how your Creamy Herb Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!