Description
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy blend of cheese and sweet apples, then seared and baked until golden and tender. This comforting savory-sweet dish is rich, flavorful, and perfect for cozy family dinners or elegant weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 apple, finely diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.
- In a bowl, combine the diced apple, shredded cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
- Spoon the filling evenly into each chicken breast pocket and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove toothpicks if used and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Granny Smith apples work especially well in this recipe.
- Brie, gouda, provolone, or cheddar can be used for different flavor variations.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Spinach can be mixed into the filling for extra color and texture.
- Wrap the chicken in turkey bacon for a smoky variation.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven covered loosely with foil to help keep the chicken juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
