Chicken Breast Stuffed With Herbed Cheese
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a herbed ricotta and Parmesan filling, offering rich flavors perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper; add a little white wine.
- Combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, and marjoram in a small bowl. Beat until well blended.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- Separate the skin from each chicken breast using fingertips, keeping the skin attached around the edges.
- Fill the pockets generously with the cheese mixture.
- Pat the skin to distribute the stuffing evenly.
- Tuck the edges of the skin under each chicken breast.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using different herbs such as thyme or basil in the cheese mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute part-skim ricotta for full-fat. A splash of lemon juice in the filling can brighten the flavors. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed chicken breasts with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with a creamy side like Scalloped Potatoes And Onions. Drizzle with a light white wine sauce or serve with a lemon wedge for extra zest.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Breast Stuffed With Herbed Cheese contains roughly 693 calories, with 13g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (76% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 945mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the chicken breasts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance. After stuffing, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just allow extra cooking time if they are chilled before baking.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or mascarpone for a richer filling. Cream cheese can also work, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast; it should read 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the chicken is cut.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).