Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese

Looking for a delicious and decadent dinner idea? This Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese recipe will satisfy all your cravings!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with the cream cheese mixture.
• Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and top with marinara sauce.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
• Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition Information:

• Serving size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 47g

Popular questions:

• Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead?

Yes, you can substitute with low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of the dish.

• Can I use a different type of cheese for stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor profile.

• Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works great in this recipe for convenience.

• Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and bake them when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.

• Do I need to pound the chicken breasts thin?

Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing can help ensure even cooking.

• Can I add vegetables to the stuffing?

Feel free to add chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers to the cream cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

• What sides go well with Chicken Parmesan?

Classic side dishes like pasta, garlic bread, or a simple salad pair well with this dish.

• Can I freeze the leftovers?

Leftover stuffed chicken can be frozen for future meals. Just thaw and reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

• How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Can I bake the chicken breasts instead of using the oven?

Baking in the oven ensures a crispy exterior, but you can also cook the stuffed chicken breasts in an air fryer or on the stovetop with a little olive oil.

Helpful tips:

• Season the cream cheese mixture well to enhance the flavor of the filling.
• Top the stuffed chicken breasts with extra marinara and cheese for a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Serve the Chicken Parmesan over a bed of spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the cream cheese stuffing.
• Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy meal prep option.
• Try different herbs and seasonings in the cream cheese stuffing for a variety of flavor profiles.
• Use toothpicks to secure the chicken breasts closed during baking to prevent the filling from oozing out.
• For a golden brown crust, broil the stuffed chicken breasts for a few minutes at the end of baking.
• Experiment with different types of marinara sauce for a twist on the classic dish.
• Pair the Chicken Parmesan with a glass of red wine for the perfect dining experience.

Expert Secrets:

• Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother filling consistency.
• Let the stuffed chicken breasts rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• For a crunchy crust, dip the stuffed chicken breasts in beaten eggs and breadcrumbs before baking.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top of the Chicken Parmesan for a pop of color and freshness.
• Experiment with different types of cheese blends in the cream cheese stuffing for a unique flavor profile.
• Drizzle a balsamic glaze or olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts before serving for added richness.
• For a low-carb version, skip the marinara sauce and serve the stuffed chicken breasts with a side of steamed vegetables.
• Substitute the chicken breasts with turkey cutlets or pork chops for a variation on the recipe.
• For a fancy presentation, tie kitchen twine around the stuffed chicken breasts before baking to hold the filling in place.