Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dinner: Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese! This dish is a delightful twist on a classic, bringing together juicy chicken, a creamy filling, and a golden, crispy coating that’s just to die for. Trust me, every bite is a flavor explosion that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). The combination of tangy cream cheese and savory marinara sauce really takes it to the next level. It’s perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself on a cozy weeknight. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together!
Ingredients
Alright, let’s gather everything we need to make this Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese! You’ll find that these ingredients are easy to come by and make for a truly delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Don’t worry if you’re unsure about anything—just remember to have fun with it! You can adjust the amount of cheese to your liking or even throw in some fresh herbs for that extra pop of flavor. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese
Okay, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this amazing Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese! I promise, once you get the hang of these steps, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar. Just follow along, and I’ll guide you through it all!
Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your chicken cook evenly and ensures that the cheese gets all bubbly and delicious. So, don’t skip this step!
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Now, grab a bowl and mix that lovely cream cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. You want it to be smooth and creamy, so just use a fork or a spatula to blend it until it’s nice and fluffy. This filling is where all the magic happens, so make sure it’s well combined!
Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Alright, time to work with the chicken! Take your chicken breasts and carefully slice a pocket into each one—make sure not to cut all the way through. You want enough space to hold that scrumptious cream cheese filling. Then, fill each pocket generously with the cream cheese mixture. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy; it’s going to taste fantastic!
Coat the Chicken
Now, let’s get those chicken breasts coated! Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the beaten egg, making sure to cover every inch. This helps the breadcrumbs stick. After that, roll them in the breadcrumbs until they’re completely coated. You want a nice thick layer of breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch, so don’t be shy!
Brown the Chicken
Next up, heat about a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add your chicken breasts and let them brown for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden color—this step adds so much flavor! Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Assemble the Dish
Now, transfer those gorgeous chicken breasts to a baking dish. Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce over the top of each one—oh, this is where it starts to smell amazing! Then, sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. The more cheese, the better, right?
Bake the Chicken Parmesan
Finally, pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is all melted and bubbly. Just peek in the oven to see that glorious golden goodness—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Tips for Success
Alright, my friend, let’s talk about some tips to make sure your Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese turns out absolutely perfect! I’ve been through the ups and downs in the kitchen, so trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will save you some headaches.
- Use a meat mallet: If your chicken breasts are uneven, pound them gently with a meat mallet to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and makes stuffing easier!
- Don’t overstuff: While it’s tempting to fill those pockets to the brim, be careful not to overstuff with cream cheese. A little goes a long way, and you don’t want it oozing out everywhere while cooking!
- Check the oil heat: When browning the chicken, make sure your olive oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s not hot, the chicken will absorb too much oil and won’t get that nice crispy crust.
- Let it rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps it super juicy!
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumbs or cream cheese filling. A bit of Italian seasoning or garlic powder can elevate the flavor even more!
- Keep an eye on it: Ovens can vary, so start checking your chicken a few minutes before the recommended time. You want that cheese bubbly and golden, but you don’t want to overbake the chicken.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a fabulous dish that impresses everyone at the table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese! I always like to keep an eye on what I’m eating, and this dish is a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients. Here’s what you can expect per serving (that’s one stuffed chicken breast):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 35g
These values are estimates, of course, and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, you get a hearty meal that’s not just satisfying but also packed with protein! Enjoy this delicious dish guilt-free, knowing it’s got a nice nutritional profile to boot!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal even more spectacular! Trust me, the right sides can elevate this dish to new heights.
- Pasta: A classic choice! Serve it over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in a light olive oil or marinara sauce. The flavors will blend beautifully, and who doesn’t love pasta?
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce on your plate. Plus, it adds that crunchy, savory element to your meal.
- Side Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can really balance the richness of the chicken. It adds a light, refreshing touch that complements the dish perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try some roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. The slight char adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
- Steamed Green Beans: Crisp, tender green beans tossed with a little lemon juice and salt make for a vibrant, healthy side that pairs well with the comforting chicken.
- Risotto: For a more indulgent option, creamy risotto can be an elegant pairing. Mushroom or lemon risotto would add a lovely flavor contrast to the dish.
Whatever you choose, these sides will not only complement your Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese but also create a delightful dining experience that your family and friends will rave about! Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
FAQ Section
Alright, let’s tackle some of the most common questions I get about my Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese! I know it can be a bit overwhelming sometimes, so I’m here to make it easier for you. Here are some FAQs that might help you out:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and then cover it tightly in the fridge for up to a day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, and it’ll taste just as fresh!
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
No worries at all! You can substitute it with ricotta cheese or even goat cheese for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture will change a bit, but it will still be delicious!
Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Yes, you can! I recommend wrapping each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They should keep well for about 2-3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking!
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Both provide a nice crunch and keep the chicken flavorful!
How can I make this spicier?
Great question! You can easily add some red pepper flakes to the cream cheese filling or sprinkle them on top before baking. It’ll give your dish a delightful kick!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs would be fantastic for this recipe. They tend to stay juicier and have more flavor, so go ahead and use them if that’s your preference!
What should I serve with this dish?
Oh, so many options! You could go for a simple pasta, a fresh salad, or even some garlic bread. Anything that complements that rich, cheesy goodness will work beautifully!
Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident in making this delightful Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!
For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this collection. You can also explore creamy pasta dishes that pair wonderfully with chicken!
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Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Chicken Parmesan stuffed with cream cheese is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy filling and a crispy coating.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese with salt and pepper.
- Slice a pocket into each chicken breast and fill with the cream cheese mixture.
- Dip each chicken breast in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown each chicken breast on both sides.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Spread marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Serve with pasta or a side salad.
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: chicken parmesan, cream cheese, stuffed chicken