Let me tell you, there’s something absolutely magical about chicken parmesan stuffed with cream cheese! It’s like a cozy hug wrapped in crispy chicken, and every bite is bursting with cheesy goodness. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was trying to impress a friend who loved Italian cuisine. I stuffed those chicken breasts with the creamiest mixture, and the moment it came out of the oven, the aroma filled my kitchen like a warm invitation. The crispy exterior combined with that luscious, gooey filling is just heavenly. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a favorite in your home too. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you just want to treat yourself to something special!
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese
Prepping the Chicken
First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when our chicken is ready to go in. While that’s happening, grab a mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s creamy and well-blended. This will be the star of our dish, so make sure it’s mixed well!
Stuffing the Chicken
Now, onto the chicken! Take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and carefully slice it horizontally, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through; we want a nice little pouch to hold all that cheesy goodness. Once you’ve got the pockets ready, generously stuff each one with the cream cheese mixture. Don’t be shy here! Just be cautious not to overstuff, or you might end up with a cheesy explosion in the oven!
Coating and Baking
Next up, we want that crispy coating. Take two eggs and beat them in a bowl. Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the eggs, letting any excess drip off, then roll it in breadcrumbs until it’s well-coated. This step is key for that crunchy texture! After coating, place the chicken in a baking dish and pour marinara sauce over the top, making sure to cover it nicely. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Just imagine the tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of creamy cream cheese and melty mozzarella creates a delightful filling that pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken.
- Easy to Prepare: This chicken parmesan stuffed with cream cheese is straightforward, making it a great option for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Texture Galore: You get that satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb coating, contrasted with the rich, gooey filling inside—it’s a texture dream!
- Quick Cooking Time: With a total prep and cook time of just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table without spending all evening in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, from kids to adults, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides like pasta or salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Tips for Success
To make sure your chicken parmesan stuffed with cream cheese turns out perfectly, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips for you! First, don’t skimp on the seasoning; fresh herbs like basil or parsley really elevate the flavor, so feel free to toss them into your cheese mixture. Also, make sure your chicken is evenly cooked by using a meat thermometer—aim for 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast. If you’re worried about dryness, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps keep it juicy. Lastly, if you want an extra crispy exterior, broil the chicken for the last couple of minutes of baking—just keep an eye on it to avoid burning! Trust me, these little tips will make a big difference!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving chicken parmesan stuffed with cream cheese, the options are endless and oh-so-delicious! I love pairing it with a simple spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic; it complements the richness of the chicken beautifully. A fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a lovely crunch and brightness to the meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, some garlic bread on the side is always a hit—who can resist that buttery goodness? And don’t forget extra marinara sauce for dipping; it’s the perfect finishing touch! These sides not only enhance the flavors but also create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), storing them is super simple. Just let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat chicken parmesan stuffed with cream cheese is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but I recommend using a low power setting and covering it to keep the moisture in. Enjoy that cheesy goodness again—it’s just as delightful the second time around!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of chicken parmesan stuffed with cream cheese is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
This dish is a great source of protein and will keep you satisfied and energized!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep chicken parmesan stuffed with cream cheese in advance. Just stuff the chicken breasts and coat them with breadcrumbs, but hold off on adding the marinara sauce until you’re ready to bake. Cover the stuffed chicken tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour the marinara sauce over the top and bake as directed. It’s a fantastic time-saver for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Sure thing! If you’re not a fan of cream cheese or just want to switch it up, there are a few great alternatives. You can use ricotta cheese for a lighter, fluffier filling, or even a mix of cream cheese and goat cheese for a tangy twist. For a lower-fat option, consider using Greek yogurt—just make sure it’s thick to avoid excess moisture. Each option will lend a unique flavor while still keeping that creamy goodness inside the chicken!
What should I serve with chicken parmesan stuffed with cream cheese?
When it comes to sides, you can’t go wrong with classic Italian pairings! I love serving this dish with a side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and fresh herbs. A crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette also complements the rich flavors beautifully. And let’s not forget about garlic bread—it’s perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce! These sides create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love, making your dinner both comforting and satisfying!
For more information on the nutritional benefits of chicken, you can visit Chicken Farmers of Canada.
To learn more about cooking techniques, check out Serious Eats.
Print
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese: 5 Easy Steps!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious chicken parmesan stuffed with cream cheese, offering a creamy and cheesy inside with a crispy outside.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket.
- Stuff each pocket with the cream cheese mixture.
- Dip stuffed chicken in beaten eggs, then coat in breadcrumbs.
- Place chicken in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot with extra marinara sauce on the side.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: chicken parmesan, stuffed chicken, cream cheese chicken
