For a show-stopping dinner, this Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken delivers on all fronts. Tender chicken breasts are filled with a flavorful mushroom mixture and melty cheese, then baked to perfection and served with a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. This recipe is elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a comforting weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy and Flavorful: Perfectly seasoned chicken paired with cheesy, garlicky mushrooms.
- One-Pan Wonder: The entire recipe comes together in one skillet for easy cleanup.
- Customizable: Swap out fillings or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
- Restaurant-Quality: Impress your family or guests with this gourmet-style dish!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Toothpicks (to seal the chicken)
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Mushroom Filling
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large oven-proof skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms, seasoning with salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Cook until the mushrooms are soft and any liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2. Stuff the Chicken Breasts
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, onion powder, and dried parsley.
- Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast.
- Place 2 slices of mozzarella cheese into each pocket, followed by the cooled mushroom mixture.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and secure the openings with toothpicks.
3. Sear and Bake the Chicken
- In the same skillet, heat a little more butter over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Reduce heat and stir in Dijon mustard and half-and-half. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally.
- Add any remaining mushrooms and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
- If needed, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir into the sauce to thicken further.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a touch of parsley.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice.
- Bread Option: Serve with warm garlic bread or a side of crusty artisan bread.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Chicken
- Seal Well: Use toothpicks to secure the filling and prevent it from spilling out during cooking.
- Golden Finish: Searing the chicken before baking ensures a beautiful golden crust.
- Adjust Cheese: Swap mozzarella with provolone or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to avoid drying out the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
No, this recipe requires raw chicken breasts for stuffing and baking. Pre-cooked chicken won’t work.
What can I use instead of mushrooms?
Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers are great alternatives for the filling.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, prepare the stuffed chicken (without the sauce) and freeze it raw. Thaw before cooking as directed.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Use plant-based butter, vegan cheese, and coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion: A Decadent, Cheesy Dinner
This Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy chicken with melty cheese, savory mushrooms, and a creamy garlic sauce. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is bound to impress your taste buds and your guests.
Make it tonight and enjoy a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!