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Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Herbs and Cheese

Boneless chicken breasts are carefully sliced to create a pocket, then filled with a mixture of fresh herbs, cheese, and spices. The stuffed breasts are seared in a hot skillet until golden and cooked through, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites with a crispy exterior and tender interior. This dish combines simple techniques with vibrant flavors for an impressive yet quick meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky depth
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese mozzarella or provolone
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs basil or thyme
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest brightens the flavor

Equipment

  • Sharp paring knife
  • Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Place a chicken breast on a cutting board and carefully slice horizontally into the thickest part, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through.
  2. Season the inside of the pocket with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to infuse the chicken with smoky flavor.
  3. Fill the pocket generously with shredded cheese, chopped herbs, and lemon zest, then press gently to close the pocket slightly.
  4. Repeat for the remaining chicken breasts.
  5. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and fragrant, about 1 minute.
  6. Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts into the hot skillet, pressing down slightly to ensure contact with the pan.
  7. Sear the chicken for 6-8 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy, then flip using tongs.
  8. Cook for another 6-8 minutes on the second side, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
  9. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
  10. Slice the stuffed chicken breasts in half to reveal the melty cheese and fragrant herbs inside.
  11. Serve immediately on a plate, enjoying the crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior.

Notes

For extra juiciness, consider brining the chicken breasts briefly before slicing. Ensure the pan isn’t overcrowded to achieve perfect browning. Resting the chicken is key to keeping it moist and flavorful.