Heavenly Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Flavorful Keto Delight
Indulge in a culinary masterpiece that’s both exquisite and satisfying with our Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe. This dish marries succulent chicken breast with creamy cheese filling, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for those following a keto lifestyle or anyone craving a low-carb, high-protein meal, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience to new heights.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into each one. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the pockets of each chicken breast, dividing it evenly among them.
- Season the outside of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or cooked spinach to the cream cheese mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier exterior, you can dredge the stuffed chicken breasts in beaten egg and then coat them in crushed pork rinds or almond flour before searing.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the cream cheese filling to customize the flavor to your liking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version: This recipe is already quite keto-friendly, as it’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein. To enhance its keto credentials, you can opt for full-fat cream cheese and Parmesan cheese. Additionally, ensure that your herbs and spices are carb-free or low in carbs. Serve alongside keto-friendly sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar.
Low-Carb Version: If you’re looking to reduce the carb content even further, you can use a lighter cream cheese or even a mixture of cream cheese and Greek yogurt to lower the fat content. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a reduced-fat version. Serve with low-carb sides like steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice for a satisfying meal that’s lower in carbs but still bursting with flavor.
Our Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a testament to the notion that eating low-carb or keto doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With its juicy chicken, creamy filling, and versatile variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan or simply seeking a delicious meal to enjoy, this recipe ticks all the boxes for taste, texture, and simplicity. Treat yourself to a culinary delight that’s as impressive as it is delectable
Cooking Notes:
- Butterfly Technique: Properly butterflying the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and creates a pocket for the cream cheese filling. Be cautious not to cut all the way through; leave one edge intact to form a hinge.
- Toothpicks or Kitchen Twine: To secure the stuffed chicken breasts, you can use toothpicks or kitchen twine. If using toothpicks, ensure they are removed before serving.
- Cooking Temperature: Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
- Customize Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings for the chicken and the cream cheese filling. Italian herbs, Cajun seasoning, or even curry powder can add interesting flavors.
Variations:
- Spinach and Feta: Add sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese to the cream cheese mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
- Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil into the cream cheese filling for a burst of flavor.
- Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the stuffed chicken breasts with bacon before baking for extra richness and flavor.
- Pesto and Mozzarella: Spread pesto sauce over the cream cheese filling and add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese for a delightful Italian-inspired dish.
Keto Version:
To make this recipe keto-friendly, ensure that all ingredients are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for coating. Use full-fat cream cheese and consider adding keto-friendly vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the filling.
Low Carb Version:
For a low-carb version, you can reduce the amount of breadcrumbs or omit them altogether. Instead of breadcrumbs, you can use grated Parmesan cheese or crushed pork rinds for added texture. Choose low-carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to serve alongside the stuffed chicken.
Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a versatile dish that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. With its tender chicken, creamy filling, and endless flavor variations, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you follow the classic recipe or customize it to your taste preferences, this dish is guaranteed to impress. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start cooking up a delicious meal that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger!
Remember, the key to a successful dish is creativity and confidence in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and ingredients to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re following a keto diet, watching your carb intake, or simply looking for a delicious meal idea, Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is sure to please. Enjoy!
