Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious dinner that feels like a cozy hug, you’ve found it with this Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken! This recipe is not just about good flavors; it’s about bringing warmth to your table. The creamy filling combined with fresh herbs makes each bite feel special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish will impress everyone.

What I love most about this stuffed chicken is how easy it is to prepare. You can have a wholesome meal on the table in under an hour. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something comforting yet elegant without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 48 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal that looks like it took all day!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy filling nestled inside tender chicken.
• Healthy Ingredients: With low-carb options and fresh herbs, this dinner feels indulgent yet nutritious.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the chicken ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: Each bite bursts with flavor from the garlic and herbs, making every meal feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and simple, so let’s gather some wholesome ingredients for our Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken! These are everyday items that you might already have in your kitchen.

For the Filling

• 4 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh chives
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Chicken

• 4 (6 oz each) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (24 oz total)
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the cheese: Try using goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.
• Add veggies: Incorporate some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for extra flavor.
• Change the herbs: If you’re out of dill or chives, basil or oregano work beautifully as substitutes.
• Stuff with other proteins: Experiment by using turkey or tofu in place of chicken for different flavors.

How to Make Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures that once your stuffed chicken is ready, it’ll bake perfectly without any waiting time. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later!

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine your softened cream cheese with minced parsley, dill, chives, and garlic. Use a spatula to mash everything together until well mixed. This mixture is going to add an incredible burst of flavor inside each chicken breast.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Place your chicken breasts on a cutting board. Carefully slice each breast from the side almost all the way through, creating a pocket for the filling. Open them gently at the slit—this is where all that yummy cream cheese mixture will go! Spread it evenly over one side of each breast before folding them back over.

Step 4: Season and Sear

Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each stuffed chicken breast. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot enough, add two breasts at a time. Sear them for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown on one side before flipping them over to do the same on the other side. Searing adds flavor through caramelization—trust me!

Step 5: Bake Until Perfectly Cooked

Transfer your beautifully seared stuffed chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until they’re cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing while they cook!

And there you have it—a delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy every creamy bite of this Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken

Creating the perfect Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken can be a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Choose fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives not only enhance the flavor of the dish but also add vibrant color and freshness that dried herbs can’t match.
• Pound the chicken breasts: For even cooking and to ensure they cook through properly, consider gently pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Let the filling cool slightly: Allow the cream cheese mixture to cool for a few minutes before stuffing it into the chicken. This prevents the filling from melting too much during cooking, keeping it intact inside the chicken.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Experiment with fillings: While this recipe features cream cheese and herbs, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fillings like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a great way to customize this dish to your taste!

How to Serve Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken

Presentation is key when serving this delightful dish! With its beautiful golden crust and creamy herb filling, you can easily make it a centerpiece of your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the cream cheese.
• Extra chopped herbs: Sprinkle some additional fresh parsley or chives over the top just before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp texture that complements the tender chicken beautifully.
• Garlic mashed cauliflower: A creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, garlic mashed cauliflower is low-carb yet comforting.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette adds a nutritious touch.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots bring color and depth to your meal while being incredibly easy to prepare.

With these serving ideas in mind, you can transform this Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken into an impressive meal that will delight family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it reheat wonderfully, but you can also make it in advance to save time on busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each cooked stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best quality, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power until heated, checking every minute.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other herbs for my Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for a personalized touch.

What sides pair well with Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken?

This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Can I make Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just a delightful meal; it’s an opportunity to savor fresh herbs and creamy goodness all wrapped up in tender chicken. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a quick meal prep option for your busy week ahead, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking!