This healthy mushroom stuffed chicken breast is a tasty way to enjoy lean protein! With juicy chicken filled with savory mushrooms and herbs, it’s sure to please.
I love making this dish when I want something special without all the fuss. Plus, it’s light and delicious—a great way to sneak in some veggies! 🍄🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil adds healthy fats and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use avocado oil or melted butter for a different taste.
Onions & Garlic: These two ingredients are essential for building flavor. I recommend using yellow onions for sweetness, but white onions work fine too. Fresh garlic is best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch.
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms are great here. If you don’t have them, you can try portobello for a meatier texture or even canned mushrooms if you’re short on time.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely, but you can use kale or other leafy greens. Frozen spinach is a great substitute; just make sure to drain the excess water.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. Chicken thighs can also add a juicier taste, but may take longer to cook.
How Do I Perfectly Stuff and Sear Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing and searing chicken can seem tricky, but with these steps, you’ll achieve it with ease. Start by pounding the chicken breasts between plastic wrap until they’re nice and even; this helps them cook uniformly.
- Spread the cool mushroom mixture evenly on the chicken and fold them over. Secure with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside.
- When searing, ensure the skillet is hot. This gives a nice golden crust. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side; don’t rush!
- Don’t skip the baking step after searing. This helps cook the chicken all the way through without drying it out.
How to Make Healthy Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 50 minutes to make this delicious and healthy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the Mushrooms and Spinach:
Next, add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. If you’re using spinach, stir it in and cook until it’s wilted. Season the mixture with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine with Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mushroom mixture cool down slightly. Once cooled, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it’s well mixed.
4. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
While the filling cools, prepare the chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a mallet until they are about 1/2 inch thick. Then, season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff the Chicken:
Now, take a generous spoonful of the mushroom mixture and place it in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over to enclose the filling. If necessary, secure the chicken with toothpicks to keep the filling in.
6. Sear the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, and increase the heat to medium-high. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your delicious and healthy mushroom stuffed chicken breast!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in the Filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the mushrooms and spinach with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even artichokes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed; some veggies might take longer or shorter to cook.
How to Store Leftover Stuffed Chicken?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. Just be careful not to dry them out!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance. After assembling, cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
What Can I Use Instead of Mozzarella Cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella, you can substitute it with shredded cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even feta for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt differently, so the texture might vary slightly!
