Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken

This cheesy garlic butter mushroom stuffed chicken transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly simple to make at home. The savory mushroom filling paired with melty cheese creates a juicy chicken dish that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.

I first created this recipe when trying to use up extra mushrooms in my fridge, and it's since become my go-to dish whenever I'm hosting dinner parties. The look on guests' faces when they cut into the chicken and see that gorgeous cheesy filling makes all the effort worthwhile.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: look for ones that are relatively thick and even in size for easier stuffing
• Mushrooms: finely chopped creates a rich earthy base for the filling
• Cream cheese: softened provides creaminess and helps bind the filling
• Mozzarella cheese: shredded adds that perfect melty stretch when the chicken is cut
• Butter: creates the foundation of flavor for sautéing the mushrooms and garlic
• Garlic: minced adds aromatic depth that pairs perfectly with mushrooms
• Dried thyme: complements the earthy mushroom flavor beautifully
• Dried parsley: adds a subtle herbaceous note to the filling
• Salt and pepper: enhances all the flavors
• Parmesan cheese: grated creates a delicious crispy top when baked
• Fresh parsley: brightens the finished dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F and give it plenty of time to reach temperature while you prepare the chicken. This moderate heat allows the chicken to cook through evenly without burning the exterior.

Prepare the Mushroom Filling:

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until it begins to foam slightly. Add minced garlic and cook for just about 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add your chopped mushrooms along with thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want all moisture to evaporate and the mushrooms to develop a deep brown color which concentrates their flavor.

Mix the Cheese Filling:

Transfer your cooked mushroom mixture to a bowl and let it cool for a few minutes. Add softened cream cheese and shredded mozzarella, then mix thoroughly until you have a cohesive filling. Make sure the mushrooms are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.

Stuff the Chicken:

Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to create a deep pocket in the thickest part of each breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Spoon the mushroom cheese mixture generously into each pocket, gently pressing it in to fill completely.

Prepare for Baking:

Transfer the stuffed chicken breasts to a baking dish that's been lightly greased. Arrange them with some space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Sprinkle the tops with grated Parmesan cheese, which will create a delicious golden crust.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and cook for 25 to 30 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear when pierced with a knife.

Serve and Garnish:

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before bringing to the table.

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The mushrooms are truly the star of this dish. I discovered how magical they can be in this recipe when my mushroom hating husband cleaned his plate and asked for seconds. The cooking process transforms their texture and concentrates their flavor, creating an almost meaty quality that even skeptics enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prepare the mushroom filling?

Sauté mushrooms with garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper in melted butter until browned. Mix with cream cheese and mozzarella for a rich filling.

→ Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes, you can substitute any variety of mushrooms you prefer, such as cremini, button, or shiitake, to suit your taste.

→ How do I avoid dry chicken breasts?

Ensure you don’t overbake the chicken. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to keep it juicy and tender.

→ What side dishes pair well with this dish?

Pair this chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.

→ Can the stuffing mixture be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mushroom filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days until ready to use.