Cheesy Tomato Basil Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup basil pesto
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing horizontally through the middle, but not all the way through, to create a pocket for stuffing.
Make the Stuffing:
3. In a bowl, combine the chopped basil, cherry tomatoes, chili flakes, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh thyme leaves.
4. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Add a drizzle of olive oil and toss to combine.
Stuff the Chicken:
5. Open up each chicken breast and stuff with the tomato mixture. Try to distribute the stuffing evenly among the chicken breasts.
Secure with Toothpicks:
6. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the chicken breasts closed, ensuring the stuffing stays inside.
Sear the Chicken:
7. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil.
8. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Add Cheese and Bake:
9. Once seared, spoon some basil pesto over each chicken breast.
10. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tops of the chicken breasts.
Finish in the Oven:
11. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
13. Remove toothpicks before serving.
14. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves** and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy your Cheesy Tomato Basil Stuffed Chicken with a side of salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
– Cheesy Tomato Basil Stuffed Chicken
– Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
– Stuffed Chicken Breasts
– Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken
– Basil Pesto Chicken
– Easy Chicken Dinner
– Healthy Stuffed Chicken
This delicious and cheesy tomato basil stuffed chicken is sure to be a hit at any dinner table!
