Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken (Printable Version)
Creamy goat cheese and herb-stuffed chicken breasts baked to golden, juicy perfection.
# What You'll Need:
→ Poultry
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
→ Cheese Filling
02 - 4 oz goat cheese, softened
03 - 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
04 - 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
05 - 1 clove garlic, minced
06 - Zest of 1 lemon
07 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
08 - Pinch of salt
→ Seasoning & Coating
09 - 1 tbsp olive oil
10 - 1/2 tsp salt
11 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
12 - 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
02 - In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped chives, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well blended.
03 - Using a small sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through the other side.
04 - Divide the goat cheese filling evenly among the four chicken breasts, spooning it into each pocket. Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside during baking.
05 - Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil, then season generously on all sides with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and paprika if using.
06 - Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear when pierced.
07 - Remove the chicken from the oven and discard any toothpicks. Let the breasts rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
# Expert Hints:
01 -
- It looks like something from a fancy restaurant but the technique is surprisingly forgiving and beginner friendly.
- The lemon zest in the filling brightens everything up and makes people ask what your secret ingredient is.
02 -
- Do not rush the pocket cutting step because a torn breast means cheese leakage and a mess on your baking dish.
- An instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 74 degrees Celsius for perfectly safe and juicy chicken.
03 -
- Use a spoon to press the filling deep into the pocket rather than just plopping it at the entrance where it can escape during baking.
- Letting the chicken rest those five minutes is not optional because it keeps the cheese where it belongs inside each beautiful slice.