Transform your dinner routine with this incredible **Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast** recipe. It takes ordinary chicken and elevates it into a magnificent, flavor-packed meal that’s both juicy and incredibly satisfying. Picture tender chicken breasts generously filled with a mouthwatering blend of savory cheese, robust sausage, and fresh, vibrant vegetables, all roasted to golden perfection in your oven. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience designed to be easy enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your family with a dish everyone will crave!
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If you’ve ever attempted to make stuffed chicken breasts only to end up with dry, lackluster chicken and a messy pan full of escaped filling, you are absolutely not alone. It’s a common kitchen frustration, and I’ve been there too! While a little spillage is perfectly fine, achieving that perfect balance of juicy chicken with the filling staying beautifully tucked inside can feel like a challenge. That’s precisely why I developed this foolproof method for baking stuffed chicken in the oven. This recipe guarantees succulent chicken every time, keeps your delicious filling where it belongs, and is streamlined enough to be a go-to for any weeknight dinner.
| Yield | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
| 8 servings | 15 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins |
For another fantastic meal, you will also love my Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe, which offers a delightful cheesy twist!
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Oven Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
There are countless reasons why this baked stuffed chicken breast will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen:
- A Symphony of Flavors: Every single bite of this stuffed chicken breast promises an incredible flavor explosion. By carefully filling the chicken with a harmonious blend of creamy cheese, aromatic herbs, and savory vegetables, we create a dish that is deeply rich, wonderfully savory, and profoundly satisfying. It’s a complete meal experience in itself.
- Effortless Customization: One of the most fantastic aspects of this recipe is its incredible versatility. It serves as a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity! You have the freedom to customize the filling to perfectly match your personal taste preferences or simply use whatever delightful ingredients you happen to have on hand. Whether you’re dreaming of Italian-inspired flavors with gooey mozzarella and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, or a more classic and comforting combination of earthy spinach and salty feta cheese, the possibilities are truly endless.
- Ideal for Meal Preparation: This recipe is an absolute game-changer for meal prep. You can easily prepare a larger batch ahead of time, allowing you to store it conveniently in the refrigerator or freezer. This makes reheating throughout the busy week an absolute breeze. It’s an incredibly practical and convenient option for individuals or families with packed schedules who are always on the lookout for quick, wholesome, and delicious meal ideas.
- Consistently Juicy Results: Bid farewell to dry, bland chicken! This method ensures that your chicken breasts remain incredibly tender and juicy, absorbing all the wonderful flavors from the stuffing as they bake to perfection.
- Impressive Presentation: Despite its simplicity, a perfectly stuffed chicken breast looks remarkably elegant and sophisticated on the plate, making it an ideal choice for entertaining guests or simply elevating your everyday dining experience.
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“It was so easy and very flavorful. It definitely took chicken breasts to another level! I used Cajun sausage and it gave the filling a delicious flavor. I highly recommend this one. It was also very easy to put together and it uses one pan. Thanks for the great recipe!”
~Felicia
Key Ingredients to Make Stuffed Baked Chicken
Crafting the perfect stuffed chicken breast starts with a few simple, yet essential, ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Chicken Breasts: The star of our dish, providing a lean and tender base.
- Sausage or Bacon: Adds a rich, savory depth and delightful texture to the filling.
- Cheese: For that irresistible gooeyness and flavor boost.
- Bell Peppers: Bringing a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- Onions: Aromatic foundation for our savory stuffing.
- Garlic: Essential for its pungent, delicious flavor.
- Celery (optional): Adds a subtle crispness and fresh note.
- Chicken Rub Seasoning: Your secret weapon for flavor-packed chicken skin.
Choosing the Right Chicken Breasts
For this delicious recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are undoubtedly the best choice. They provide a clean canvas for your stuffing and cook relatively quickly and evenly. It’s particularly important to select chicken breasts that are as uniform in thickness as possible. Why? Uniformity ensures that each piece of chicken cooks consistently from edge to edge, preventing the thinner sections from drying out while the thicker parts are still reaching their safe internal temperature. If your chicken breasts vary significantly in size or thickness, you might consider gently pounding the thicker ends to achieve a more even dimension, ensuring a perfectly juicy outcome every time.
How to Perfectly Season the Chicken
A well-seasoned chicken is the foundation of a truly delicious dish. While you can certainly use your favorite store-bought chicken rub, I personally love using my homemade Dry Rub for Chicken recipe. This blend creates a beautifully caramelized crust and infuses the chicken with layers of flavor. My signature rub includes:
- Brown Sweetener or traditional Brown Sugar for a touch of sweetness and caramelization.
- Chili Powder for a subtle warmth and earthy undertone.
- Garlic Powder for a savory, aromatic kick.
- Onion Powder to complement the garlic and add depth.
- Smoked Paprika for a beautiful color and a smoky, complex flavor.
- Salt and Pepper, the universal flavor enhancers, always to taste.
Feel free to experiment with any combination of your preferred spices or reach for a convenient, flavorful store-bought chicken rub to suit your palate. The key is to ensure the chicken is generously coated for maximum taste.
Expert Tips for Slicing and Stuffing the Chicken
The secret to perfectly stuffed chicken breasts lies in the proper slicing technique. You want to create a generous “pocket” that can hold plenty of delicious filling without tearing through the chicken entirely. Here’s how to do it effectively:
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally into the thickest side of each chicken breast, aiming to create a deep incision that extends almost to the other side, but without cutting all the way through. Think of it like creating a pita pocket – you want a spacious cavity where the filling can nestle comfortably and cook evenly within the chicken. This method maximizes the amount of stuffing you can include, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
While this deep pocket method is ideal for holding ample stuffing, there’s another popular variation: Hasselback chicken. In this technique, you create several shallow slits across the top of the chicken breast, rather than one deep pocket. Each slit is then filled with a smaller amount of stuffing. While visually appealing, this variation holds significantly less filling, which is why I’ve opted for the deep pocket method in this recipe to deliver a more robust and satisfyingly stuffed experience.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Stuffed Chicken Breast in the Oven
Achieving perfectly tender, flavorful stuffed chicken breasts is simpler than you might think. Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping meal:
For precise measurements and complete instructions, refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the very bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Filling Base: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place an oven-safe skillet (a 12-inch cast-iron skillet works wonderfully for this) over medium-high heat. Add a touch of olive oil. Once shimmering, add your chopped bell peppers, onions, celery, and diced sausage or bacon. Sauté these ingredients for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become translucent, and the sausage or bacon is cooked through and fragrant.
- Infuse with Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Immediately remove the cooked vegetables and sausage/bacon mixture from the pan and set it aside in a bowl to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Chicken Pockets: Arrange the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Using a very sharp knife, carefully cut a deep pocket lengthwise into the side of each chicken breast. Ensure you do not slice all the way through to the other side; you’re creating a deep cavity for the stuffing.
- Stuff the Chicken: Take the cooled vegetable and sausage mixture. Now, combine it with the shredded cheese. Carefully spoon or press this savory filling firmly into each pocket of the chicken breasts. If you find the pockets are struggling to hold the filling, or if you prefer extra security, you can gently secure the opening with a few toothpicks.
- Season Generously: Once stuffed, generously season the outsides of both sides of each chicken breast with your chosen chicken rub or spice blend. Don’t be shy – this seasoning forms a delicious crust and adds immense flavor.
- Sear for Flavor and Color: Return the same skillet to medium-high heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely. Once the butter is bubbling, carefully place the seasoned, stuffed chicken breasts into the hot pan. Sear the chicken for about 3 minutes on one side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. Then, flip each breast once and sear for an additional 2 to 3 minutes on the other side. This searing step locks in juices and develops a fantastic depth of flavor.
- Finish Baking in the Oven: Carefully transfer the skillet, with the seared chicken breasts, directly into your preheated oven. Continue to bake the chicken breasts for approximately 20 minutes, or until the thickest part of each breast reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). Always use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure accuracy and food safety. Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken.
- Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the oven. Allow the stuffed chicken breasts to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness and preventing them from running out when cut. Remember to remove any toothpicks before serving!
Should You Cover The Stuffed Chicken Breast in Oven?
One common question when baking chicken is whether to cover it with foil. In this particular recipe, I actually don’t cover the chicken, and this method consistently yields tender and juicy results. However, understanding when and why to cover your stuffed chicken can be very helpful, especially if you’ve struggled with dry chicken in the past. Here’s a quick guide:
When to Consider Covering Stuffed Chicken Breast:
- For Moisture Retention: If your primary concern is preventing the chicken from drying out, particularly if your oven tends to run hot or if your chicken breasts are very lean, covering them loosely with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking time can create a steaming effect. This helps to lock in moisture. You would then remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the chicken to brown and crisp up.
- For Cheese-Stuffed Chicken (like this one!): When your stuffing, like ours, contains a generous amount of cheese, covering it initially can prevent the cheese from browning too quickly, becoming overly crispy, or even burning before the chicken is fully cooked. It helps the cheese melt beautifully and evenly.
- If Using Delicate Fillings: Fillings with fresh herbs or ingredients prone to burning might benefit from initial coverage.
When to Leave It Uncovered:
- For a Golden, Crispy Exterior: If your goal is to achieve a beautifully golden-brown, slightly crispy crust on the chicken (which our recipe aims for with the searing step), baking it uncovered is the way to go. This allows the direct heat of the oven to caramelize the exterior and render any fat, enhancing both flavor and texture.
- If Baking with a Sauce: If your stuffed chicken is nestled in a rich sauce or broth, leaving it uncovered allows that liquid to reduce and thicken, intensifying its flavors and creating a more cohesive dish.
- For Simplicity: In many cases, especially with properly prepared and appropriately sized chicken breasts, covering isn’t necessary to achieve tender results, simplifying your cooking process.
Ultimately, whether you cover your stuffed chicken depends on your oven, the size of your chicken, and your desired outcome. For this recipe, the initial searing combined with precise baking temperature provides ample juiciness without the need for foil.
Selecting the Best Cheese to Use
The right cheese can transform your stuffed chicken, adding a layer of creamy texture and rich flavor. While truly any melting cheese will work beautifully, the choice allows for wonderful customization. I often gravitate towards a combination, like sharp cheddar for its robust flavor, alongside another cheese for its melting properties. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Sharp Cheddar: Excellent for a deep, savory flavor that stands out.
- Pepperjack Cheese: For those who love a bit of a kick, offering a mild spice.
- Mozzarella: The undisputed champion when you’re looking for that glorious, stretchy cheese pull! It melts wonderfully and has a mild flavor that pairs well with almost any filling.
- White Cheddar: A milder, creamier alternative to sharp cheddar, still delivering great depth.
- Provolone: Offers a smooth, slightly tangy flavor and a fantastic melt.
- Parmesan: A hard, salty cheese that adds a strong umami kick when grated into a filling, often best combined with a milder melting cheese.
- Cream Cheese: Can be blended into a filling for extra creaminess and a tangy note, creating a rich and luxurious texture.
Don’t hesitate to mix and match your favorites to create a custom cheese blend that perfectly complements your chosen stuffing ingredients!
Delicious Variations of Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast
The beauty of baked stuffed chicken breast lies in its endless adaptability. Once you’ve mastered the basic technique, feel free to get creative with your fillings! Here are some incredible variations to inspire your next culinary masterpiece, categorized for easy exploration:
Savory Meats & Seafood:
- Shrimp: Cooked and chopped shrimp for a delicate, oceanic flavor.
- Crab Meat: Flaked crab meat, perhaps mixed with cream cheese and Old Bay for a Maryland-style stuffing.
- Ham: Diced ham offers a salty, smoky counterpoint, especially good with cheese.
- Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto, either wrapped around the chicken or diced into the filling for an intense savory kick.
- Pepperoni: Small pepperoni slices or diced pepperoni for a pizza-inspired twist.
- Chorizo: Crumbled and cooked chorizo for a spicy, smoky, and flavorful punch.
- Italian Sausage: A classic choice, providing rich, seasoned meat.
- Smoked Salmon: Flaked smoked salmon, perfect with cream cheese and dill for an elegant filling.
Fresh & Hearty Vegetables:
- Spinach: Sautéed and squeezed dry spinach, often paired with feta or cream cheese.
- Broccoli: Finely chopped and lightly steamed broccoli florets.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mixed mushrooms for an earthy, umami depth.
- Asparagus: Blanched asparagus spears, left whole or chopped.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Jarred or homemade roasted red peppers for sweetness and color.
- Sundried Tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed or rehydrated) for concentrated, tangy flavor.
- Jalapeños: Thinly sliced or diced jalapeños for a vibrant, spicy kick.
- Caramelized Onions: Slow-cooked sweet onions for a rich, deeply savory, and slightly sweet flavor.
- Green Chilies: Canned diced green chilies for a mild, smoky heat.
Creamy & Unexpected Additions:
- Cream Cheese: Adds incredible creaminess and a slight tang, perfect for binding other ingredients.
- Pineapple: Diced pineapple for a surprising sweet and savory tropical note.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match these ideas to create your signature stuffed chicken breast!
Baked Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Brandi Crawford
This Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast transforms ordinary chicken into a succulent dish bursting with flavor and texture. It’s stuffed with a savory filling of cheese, sausage, and vegetables, then roasted to perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this is a dish everyone will love!
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Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Stainless Steel Frying Pan
Ingredients
- 4 large chicken breasts About 5-6 ounces each.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup chopped green peppers
- ½ cup chopped white onions
- 1 celery stalk finely chopped
- 2 oz sausage or bacon Diced into small chunks.
- 2-3 garlic cloves Minced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Chicken Rub and Spices (Feel free to use your favorite store-bought rub).
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar or sweetener
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C).
- Heat an oven-safe skillet (a 12-inch cast-iron skillet is recommended) on medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chopped green peppers, onions, celery, and diced sausage (or bacon). Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are translucent and the sausage/bacon is fragrant and lightly cooked.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for another minute until aromatic. Remove the cooked vegetables and sausage/bacon from the pan and set aside in a bowl.
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep pocket lengthwise into each chicken breast, ensuring you do not cut all the way through to the other side.
- Combine the sautéed vegetable and sausage (or bacon) mixture with the shredded cheese. Divide this filling evenly among the chicken breasts, firmly pressing it into each pocket. If desired, you can secure the opening of each chicken breast with toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside.
- Generously season the outsides of both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts with your chosen chicken rub or spice blend.
- Add the butter to the same skillet and melt it over medium-high heat. Once melted, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts into the pan. Sear the chicken for 3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and sear for an additional 2 to 3 minutes on the other side. This step creates a delicious crust and locks in moisture.
- Transfer the skillet, with the seared chicken breasts, to the preheated oven. Continue to cook until the thickest part of each breast reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This can take 20 minutes or more, depending on the thickness of your chicken.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Remember to remove any toothpicks before enjoying!
Notes
For best results, use large chicken breasts as they are generally easier to stuff. Aim for breasts that are similar in size to ensure they cook evenly. This also helps prevent overcooking smaller pieces while waiting for larger ones to finish.
If you find that your stuffed chicken breasts are struggling to hold their shape or the filling is starting to escape, don’t hesitate to secure them with toothpicks. Keep in mind that a little bit of delicious spillage from a generously stuffed chicken is perfectly normal and adds flavor to the pan!
The exact amount of stuffing you’ll need can vary based on the size of your chicken breasts and how generously you prefer to fill them. Feel free to adjust the quantities of each ingredient in the filling to suit your personal preferences.
For an extra cheesy experience, simply increase the amount of shredded cheese in your stuffing mixture. Cheese lovers rejoice!
Nutrition
Calories: 187kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 8g
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Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using third-party tools like MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for any given recipe, you should calculate it with the actual ingredients and brands used in your specific preparation, utilizing your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and suitable for your individual dietary needs.
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Pro Tips For Making Stuffed Chicken Breasts in Oven
Achieving consistently perfect stuffed chicken breasts is easy when you follow a few simple tips. These insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your chicken is always juicy, flavorful, and beautifully presented:
Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are on the thicker side and, ideally, of uniform size. Thicker breasts are much easier to slice and stuff without tearing, and even sizing ensures that all pieces cook through at roughly the same time, preventing some from drying out while others finish.
Master the Butterfly Cut: When creating the pocket for your stuffing, use a very sharp knife to make a horizontal incision into the side of the breast. Cut almost all the way through, but leave about a half-inch intact on the opposite side. This creates a deep, spacious “pita pocket” for your filling, allowing for generous stuffing without the risk of everything spilling out.
Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack every last bit of that delicious cheese and vegetable mixture into the chicken, overstuffing is a common culprit for spillage. Aim for a generous but manageable amount—a few tablespoons per breast is often plenty. You want the chicken to be able to comfortably enclose the filling, not burst at the seams.
Secure the Filling (If Needed): If your chicken breasts are particularly thin, or if you’ve added a very generous amount of filling, consider using one or two wooden toothpicks to gently secure the opening of the pocket. Just remember to remove them all before serving!
Invest in a Meat Thermometer: This is arguably the most crucial tip for perfectly cooked chicken. Cook your stuffed chicken until the thickest part (avoiding the stuffing itself) registers an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A thermometer eliminates guesswork, ensuring your chicken is safely cooked yet remains incredibly juicy, never dry or overdone.
Allow for Resting Time: Once your chicken breasts are out of the oven, resist the urge to slice into them immediately. Let them rest uncovered for at least 5-10 minutes. This essential step allows the internal juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and moist chicken. It also helps the filling settle, preventing it from gushing out when you make the first cut.
Pre-cook Heartier Fillings: If your stuffing includes ingredients like raw sausage, bacon, or denser vegetables, pre-cooking them as outlined in this recipe is vital. This ensures they are fully cooked and flavorful by the time the chicken is done, and it prevents the release of excess moisture into the chicken as it bakes.
How to Store Stuffed Baked Chicken
Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious baked stuffed chicken breast for days to come. After baking, allow the chicken to cool down at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This prevents condensation from building up inside the storage container, which can lead to soggy chicken. Once cooled, place the stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight food storage container. Alternatively, you can wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil and then place them in a freezer bag. Stored correctly in the refrigerator, your baked stuffed chicken will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Pair With these Delicious Side Dishes
A perfectly cooked stuffed chicken breast deserves equally delightful accompaniments. Here are some fantastic side dishes that complement its rich flavors and textures beautifully:
- Roasted Ranch Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, with a zesty ranch flavor.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A naturally sweet and creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
- Ranch Mashed Potatoes: Classic comfort food with an extra savory kick.
- Grilled Asparagus in Foil: Simple, elegant, and packed with fresh flavor.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and tender, offering a wonderful savory balance.
- A Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Steamed Green Beans with Lemon: A quick and healthy option that adds vibrant color and a touch of acidity.
- Wild Rice Pilaf: For a heartier grain option that pairs well with savory fillings.
More Irresistible Chicken Recipes
If you’re a fan of delicious and versatile chicken dishes, you’re in the right place! Explore these other fantastic chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites:
- Dry Rub Chicken Wings: Crispy, flavor-packed wings perfect for game day or a casual meal.
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan: All the flavor of classic Chicken Parm with a lighter, air-fried crispness.
- Blackened Chicken: Spicy, smoky, and incredibly flavorful, perfect for adding a kick to any meal.
- Blackened Chicken Sandwich: Turn that flavorful blackened chicken into a show-stopping sandwich.
- Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie: A comforting, hearty classic topped with fluffy, golden biscuits.
