Easy Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe: Juicy and Flavorful Dinner
Craving a restaurant-quality chicken dish that's bursting with garlic and melty cheese, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal? This cheese-stuffed garlic chicken breast is your answer! Tender chicken breasts are butterflied, filled with a creamy garlic-cheese mixture, then baked or pan-seared to golden perfection with a juicy interior. Ready in under 45 minutes, it's perfect for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep. Whether you're searching for an easy cheese-stuffed garlic chicken breast recipe, a garlic herb stuffed chicken with cheese, or a beginner-friendly stuffed chicken idea, this crowd-pleaser has gained popularity for its rich flavors and impressive presentation, often compared to gourmet versions but made with everyday ingredients. Let's stuff and cook!
What Is Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Chicken Breast?
Cheese-stuffed garlic chicken breast is a savory dish where boneless chicken breasts are slit open (butterflied), filled with a mixture of garlic, herbs, and cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese, then sealed and cooked until the cheese melts into a gooey center. Popular in home cooking and often featured in recipes for its juicy texture and bold garlic flavor, it's a healthier alternative to fried chicken while delivering comfort food vibes. This stuffed chicken is versatile—bake for low-fat or pan-sear for crisp skin—and clocks in at about 300-400 calories per serving, making it keto-friendly with minimal carbs. Unlike plain grilled chicken, the stuffing adds moisture and richness, turning a basic protein into an impressive entree.
Ingredients for Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Chicken Breast
This recipe serves 4 and uses simple, affordable ingredients—many versions incorporate cream cheese for creaminess and fresh garlic for punch.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or basil, chopped)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for cooking
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for extra cheesiness; lemon juice for tang
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Chicken Breast
This straightforward method ensures juicy chicken with a melty filling. Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 25-30 minutes.
- Prep the Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking. Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally without cutting through. Season inside with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, minced garlic, shredded mozzarella, herbs, and optional Parmesan until smooth.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon 2-3 tbsp of filling into each butterflied breast. Fold over and secure with toothpicks. Brush outside with olive oil and season.
- Cook the Chicken: For baking: Place in a greased dish and bake 25-30 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F. For pan-searing: Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high, sear 4-5 minutes per side, then finish in oven if needed.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest 5 minutes, remove toothpicks, and slice to reveal the cheesy center. Serve with veggies or salad!
Tips for the Perfect Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Chicken Breast
- Chicken Thickness: Butterfly evenly for uniform cooking—pound thin if needed.
- Cheese Melt: Use room-temp cream cheese for smooth mixing; add herbs for freshness.
- Sealing Trick: Toothpicks prevent leaking—remove before serving.
- Make-Ahead: Stuff up to a day ahead and refrigerate; bake fresh.
- Garlic Level: Mince fresh for bold flavor; roast for milder.
- Common Mistakes: Overstuff—filling spills; check temp to avoid dry chicken.
Variations on Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Chicken Breast
- Herb Garlic: Add dill or thyme to filling for a garden-fresh twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based cheese and tofu "chicken".
- Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap stuffed breasts in bacon before baking.
- Mushroom Add-In: Sauté mushrooms and mix into filling.
- Breaded Version: Coat in breadcrumbs and fry for crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I prevent cheese from leaking out?
Secure with toothpicks and don't overfill—bake seam-side down.
Can I air-fry stuffed chicken breasts?
Yes! Air-fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Is cheese-stuffed chicken keto?
Absolutely—low-carb with no breading; around 5g carbs per serving.
What sides go with stuffed chicken?
Roasted veggies, salad, or rice complement the richness.
Why You'll Love This Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe
This easy cheese-stuffed garlic chicken breast is juicy, garlicky, and cheesily satisfying—a healthy dinner that's impressive yet simple. With customizable fillings and quick prep, it's a staple you'll make on repeat. Try it tonight for flavor-packed perfection!
Share your stuffed chicken creations in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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