Italian Stuffed Chicken(Makes 4 Servings)
Juicy stuffed chicken breasts filled with Provolone cheese, fresh tomatoes, and basil, baked to perfection. A flavorful, satisfying dish ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- With a meat mallet, pound chicken to 1/4-inch thickness. Place in large baking pan.
- Add oil-vinegar salad dressing and turn to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Remove chicken pieces and drain.
- Cut each piece in half crosswise.
- Place cheese, tomato slices, and a pinch of basil on each of 4 pieces of chicken.
- Top each with the remaining half of the chicken breast.
- Pound edges together to seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the oil-vinegar salad dressing for several hours or overnight. If you don't have Provolone cheese, mozzarella or fontina can be good substitutes. To ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian stuffed chicken alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Minestre Fagioli for a comforting Italian feast. A side of garlic bread or pasta tossed in olive oil can enhance the dining experience further.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the stuffed chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps retain moisture and keeps the chicken tender.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Stuffed Chicken(Makes 4 Servings) contains roughly 938 calories, with 25g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (52% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1144mg per serving (50% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken the day before and refrigerate it. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to cook, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
What can I use instead of Italian seasoned bread crumbs?
If you don't have Italian seasoned bread crumbs, you can use plain bread crumbs mixed with dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, and parsley to mimic the flavors. This will still give you a delicious coating for your chicken.
Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before cooking. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
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).