Mozzarella Pesto Stuffed Chicken

If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor yet surprisingly easy to prepare, Mozzarella Pesto Stuffed Chicken is your new go-to recipe. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a heavenly filling of fresh mozzarella, vibrant basil pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes, all baked to perfection. It’s a perfect balance of gooey cheese, herbaceous pesto, and savory chicken that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.

Why This Recipe Works

Mozzarella Pesto Stuffed Chicken works because it brings together complementary flavors and textures in a simple yet impressive package. The chicken breasts remain juicy thanks to the stuffing, which locks in moisture and infuses every bite with bright basil pesto and creamy mozzarella. Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese. A quick sear in olive oil creates a golden crust, while baking finishes cooking the chicken and melts the cheese inside. This combination ensures each serving is moist, flavorful, and satisfying without requiring hours in the kitchen.

What’s in the Bowl

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – the perfect canvas for our delicious stuffing.
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced – provides that melty, gooey texture we all love.
• 1/2 cup basil pesto – homemade or store-bought, this herbaceous spread packs tons of flavor.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – adds a sweet and slightly tart punch.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – enhances the cheesy, savory notes.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – brings aromatic depth and a bit of a bite.
• 1 teaspoon salt – balances and elevates all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle heat to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the chicken to a golden-brown perfection.
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish – a fresh, vibrant finish.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Sharp knife – essential for slicing the chicken breasts and dicing the mozzarella.
• Cutting board – a sturdy surface for prepping all ingredients.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the pesto, cheese, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Skillet or frying pan – for searing the stuffed chicken breasts before baking.
• Baking dish – to finish cooking the chicken in the oven.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin (optional) – to gently flatten chicken breasts if needed.
• Toothpicks – to secure the chicken pockets, preventing the filling from escaping.

Cooking Mozzarella Pesto Stuffed Chicken: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Begin by carefully slicing each boneless skinless chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket. Be sure not to cut all the way through. If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and easier stuffing.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a flavorful, aromatic mixture that will bring life to the chicken breasts.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Carefully spoon the pesto and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket, dividing it evenly. Be generous but avoid overstuffing to prevent the filling from spilling during cooking. Use toothpicks to secure the openings, ensuring the stuffing stays inside.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a beautiful color and texture to the dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the toothpicks carefully before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added aroma. This Mozzarella Pesto Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, including pasta dishes like Chicken And Roasted Red Pepper Pasta or a light salad to balance the richness.

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Use part-skim mozzarella cheese to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.
• Opt for a homemade pesto with less oil or a light pesto alternative.
• Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad instead of carb-heavy sides.
• Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts to keep the dish lean.

What Not to Do

• Don’t skip seasoning the chicken breasts before stuffing – it’s key to well-rounded flavor.
• Avoid overfilling the chicken pockets, which can cause the filling to leak out during cooking.
• Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing; cook in batches if necessary to maintain a nice crust.
• Don’t forget to check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked but still juicy.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store leftover Mozzarella Pesto Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This dish reheats well and can be a convenient meal prep option.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I prepare Mozzarella Pesto Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours before cooking and keep them covered in the refrigerator. This makes dinner prep much quicker when you’re ready to cook.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh mozzarella?

If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use shredded mozzarella cheese. While the texture will differ slightly, it still melts nicely and complements the pesto and sun-dried tomatoes.

Is it okay to use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works well and saves time. Just choose a high-quality brand or one with simple, natural ingredients for the best flavor.

Can I add other fillings to this chicken?

Definitely! Consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts to the stuffing mix for extra layers of flavor and texture.

Because You Liked This

• Chicken And Roasted Red Pepper Pasta – a vibrant pasta dish that complements your stuffed chicken perfectly.
• Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil – light and refreshing, pairing beautifully with rich chicken dishes.

Final Thoughts

Mozzarella Pesto Stuffed Chicken is a delightful recipe that elevates simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. Its combination of melty cheese, aromatic pesto, and juicy chicken makes it a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Perfect for those nights when you want something special without complicated steps, this dish brings warmth and flavor to your table. Pair it with your favorite sides, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy a dinner that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Savor every bite of this Mozzarella Pesto Stuffed Chicken and don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings or side dishes to make it your own. Happy cooking!

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