Description
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this Italian-inspired mozzarella stuffed chicken breast. Succulent chicken breasts are carefully pocketed and filled with fresh, creamy mozzarella, then breaded in a crispy panko-parmesan coating. After a quick sear to lock in the juices, they bake until golden and tender. Served over a bed of vibrant marinara sauce, this dish offers a professional-quality, comfort-food experience that is savory, cheesy, and remarkably moist.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Use a sharp boning knife to cut a pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast.
Stuff each breast with mozzarella slices and secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
Create a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second, and a mixture of panko, Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a third.
Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip into the eggs, then press firmly into the panko mixture.
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken until golden brown on both sides.
Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish and place the seared chicken on top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.
Notes
Choose uniform chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. Slice mozzarella into thick strips to prevent leakage. For extra crunch, ensure the panko is pressed firmly into the chicken during breading.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Chicken Dinner
- Method: Baking and Searing
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed breast
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 145mg