Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a show-stopping dish? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Delicious Stuffed Chicken Parmesan. Picture this – crispy golden-brown chicken breasts filled with oozy, melty mozzarella cheese, all smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with a sprinkle of fragrant basil. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!

I first whipped up this Delicious Stuffed Chicken Parmesan for a cozy date night at home, and it instantly became a family favorite. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make but looks and tastes like a gourmet masterpiece. The secret lies in using low-moisture mozzarella for that perfectly gooey center without compromising the crunch of the chicken coating.

Whether you’re planning a special celebration or just want to treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy meal, this stuffed chicken parmesan is sure to impress. Plus, with a few handy tips for prep ahead and customization options, you can easily tailor this recipe to suit your preferences. Get ready to savor each bite of this indulgent dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table!

Quick Benefits

• Impressive Restaurant-Worthy Dish at Home: Elevates the classic Italian favorite with a crispy golden brown texture and oozy mozzarella cheese center.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Can be prepared up to 8 hours before cooking, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
• Versatile and Customizable: Offers options for substitutions like turkey cutlets for a leaner alternative, gluten-free adaptations, and different herbs for seasoning, allowing for personalization based on dietary needs and preferences.
• Delicious Leftovers: Reheats well in the oven, retaining great flavor even if the coating is slightly less crispy than when freshly made.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe Recipe

• Impressive Restaurant-Worthy Dish: Elevates the classic chicken parmesan into a gourmet meal that looks and tastes like it’s from a fancy Italian restaurant.
• Crispy, Cheesy Goodness: Delivers the perfect crispy, golden-brown crust with a gooey, oozing mozzarella cheese center that will satisfy all your comfort food cravings.
• Simple Techniques: Easy-to-follow steps make this dish accessible for anyone to master at home, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook.
• Prepare Ahead Convenience: Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, as you can prep the chicken in advance, saving you time without compromising on flavor or texture.
• Versatile Options: Provides various substitutions for dietary preferences (like using turkey cutlets for a leaner option or gluten-free alternatives) and allows for adjustments to cater to different flavor profiles without losing the essence of the dish.
• Family Favorite: A dish that appeals to all generations, from kids loving the cheesy center to adults appreciating the well-balanced flavors and textures.
• Perfect Pairings: Can be served as a standalone main course or combined with simple sides like arugula salad, angel hair pasta, or roasted vegetables to create a complete, satisfying Italian feast.
• Meal Reheatability: Reheats well in the oven, making it a great make-ahead option for leftovers or meal prepping without sacrificing taste or quality.
• Culinary Tips: Offers helpful cooking tips like using toothpicks to secure the stuffing, using quality marinara sauce for enhanced flavor, and ensuring proper cooking temperature for food safety and optimal taste.

Ingredients for Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken

• 1 teaspoon (6 g) kosher salt
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (1.4 kg, 2 ½ to 3 pounds total)
• ½ teaspoon (2 g) garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon (1 g) black pepper

Cheese and Seasoning

• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, divided
• ½ cup (73 g) grated parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups (227 g) shredded mozzarella, divided

Breading and Coating

• ¼ cup (75 ml) olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon, divided
• 1 ¼ cup (95 g) panko bread crumbs, or regular
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup (107 g) all-purpose flour

Sauce and Garnish

• ¼ cup (5 g) basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon (1 g) chopped parsley
• 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce

How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Position the oven rack in the lower-middle position and preheat to 425°F (191°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel. Make a 4 to 5-inch long slit on the thickest side of each breast, then cut a 2 to 3-inch deep pocket leaving a ½-inch uncut area. Repeat for all pieces. Mix salt, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. Season both sides of the chicken evenly with the mixture.

Step 3: Stuff with Filling

Place 3 tablespoons mozzarella, 1 tablespoon parmesan cheese, and ⅛ teaspoon Italian seasoning into each pocket. Secure the opening with toothpicks.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

1. Place flour in one shallow bowl, whisk eggs and olive oil in a second bowl, and mix panko breadcrumbs with ¼ cup parmesan cheese in a third bowl.
2. Coat chicken in flour, then dip in egg wash, and finally coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces.

Step 5: Pan-fry the Coating

Preheat a 12-inch oven-proof cast iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil and place chicken presentation-side down. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Turn off the heat.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

Spread 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over each chicken breast. Fill any gaps in the pan with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top of each chicken breast.

Step 7: Finish in the Oven

Bake until cheese is melted, lightly browned, and internal temperature reaches 160 to 165ºF (71 to 74ºC) on a meat thermometer, approximately 10 to 15 minutes, adjusting for thickness.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Thin out marinara sauce with water to desired consistency. Garnish with sliced basil and chopped parsley before serving.

Storage Tips

After preparing the stuffed chicken parmesan, store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness and flavor. Place the cooled dish in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes. While the coating may be slightly less crispy after reheating, the flavors will still be delicious.

If you plan to prepare the stuffed chicken parmesan in advance, you can stuff and bread the chicken up to 8 hours before cooking. Keep the prepared chicken covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. For longer storage, it’s best to stuff the chicken but wait to bread it until just before cooking to ensure the crispiest results. This dish is versatile and can be made ahead to save time on busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without much last-minute preparation.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a leaner alternative, consider using turkey cutlets pounded thin instead of chicken breasts. This substitution will result in a lighter dish with a shorter cooking time due to the thinner cut of meat. Additionally, if you need a gluten-free option, you can replace the all-purpose flour with rice flour and opt for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed rice Chex cereal for the breading. This adjustment allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious stuffed chicken parmesan without sacrificing flavor or texture.

If you prefer a different herb profile, you can substitute the Italian seasoning with a blend of dried basil and oregano. This swap is a great option if you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand but still want to infuse your dish with classic Italian flavors. Furthermore, to make a lighter version of this dish, you can skip the pan-frying step and bake the breaded chicken at 425°F for about 25 minutes. While the coating may be less golden and crispy, baking the chicken offers a healthier cooking method without compromising taste.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider slicing the stuffed chicken parmesan into medallions and arranging them on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving as appetizers at a party or gathering. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara, pesto, or aioli to add extra flavor dimensions and impress your guests with a delicious finger food option.

Another fun way to serve this dish is to layer the sliced stuffed chicken parmesan over a bed of creamy garlic parmesan mashed potatoes. The combination of the crispy chicken, gooey cheese center, and rich mashed potatoes creates a comforting and indulgent meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil and parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs for Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko for this recipe?

Yes, regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko, although panko typically provides a crunchier texture in the final dish.

How can I prevent the mozzarella from spilling out during cooking?

Secure the stuffed chicken with toothpicks before cooking to prevent the mozzarella from spilling out during the cooking process.

What are some substitutes for parmesan cheese in this recipe?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can be used as substitutes for parmesan cheese to create a different flavor profile in the dish.

What is the recommended internal temperature for the chicken to be fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 160 to 165°F (71 to 74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this recipe for Delicious Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. Whether you’re planning a special date night or a family celebration, this dish is sure to impress with its crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy center. The versatility of this recipe allows for personalization and adjustments to suit your dietary preferences or pantry staples, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delectable meal.

So, next time you’re craving a comforting and satisfying Italian meal, give this Delicious Stuffed Chicken Parmesan a try. With its straightforward preparation and incredible flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. Buon appetito!