Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra Creamy & Cheesy: The cream cheese filling makes this dish ultra-rich and satisfying.
• Crispy & Golden Crust: A quick pan sear ensures a crispy, flavorful coating.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: A perfect mix of cheesy, crispy, and saucy textures.
• Easy Yet Impressive: Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil and set aside.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

• In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh basil (if using) until smooth.

3. Stuff the Chicken

• Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through.
• Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture, securing with toothpicks if needed.

4. Coat the Chicken

• Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the beaten egg, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Sear the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sear each chicken breast for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

6. Bake the Chicken

• Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish.
• Top each with a spoonful of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

7. Serve & Garnish

• Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley (if desired).
• Serve hot with pasta, salad, or roasted veggies.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 380 kcal per serving

Variations

• Low-Carb Option: Swap breadcrumbs or almond flour.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese filling.
• Different Cheeses: Try using provolone, gouda, or ricotta for a unique twist.
• Extra Crispy Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
• Air Fryer Version: Air fry at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
• Freezing: Wrap stuffed, uncooked chicken in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Stuff the chicken in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

2. What should I serve with this dish?

Pair with pasta, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple salad.

3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Secure the chicken with toothpicks and avoid overstuffing.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time since thighs take longer.

5. Can I air fry this instead?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

6. How do I get the crispiest crust?

Use panko breadcrumbs and ensure the chicken is properly seared before baking.

7. What’s the best way to stuff chicken breasts?

Use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket, being careful not to slice all the way through.

8. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes! Any good-quality store-bought marinara works well.

9. What’s the best cheese for stuffing?

Cream cheese gives a creamy texture, while mozzarella and Parmesan add great flavor.

10. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw completely before stuffing and cooking for even results.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese is a cheesy, crispy, and comforting dish that’s guaranteed to impress. With a creamy filling, crispy crust, and rich marinara topping, this is a meal that feels gourmet but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Try it tonight and enjoy the perfect blend of Italian flavors with a creamy twist!

Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese

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This Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese is a rich, indulgent twist on a classic favorite. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a creamy cheese mixture, coated in crispy breadcrumbs, and topped with marinara sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 30min
• Total Time: 45min
• Yield: 4servings
• Category: Dinner 'Main Course
• Method: Baking, Pan-Searing
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Coating:

• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crispiness)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil and set aside.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

• In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and basil until smooth.

3. Stuff the Chicken:

• Slice a deep pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
• Stuff each pocket with the cream cheese mixture, securing with toothpicks if needed.

4. Coat the Chicken:

• Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the beaten egg, then coat it with breadcrumbs.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Sear the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

6. Bake the Chicken:

• Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish.
• Top with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

7. Serve & Garnish:

• Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
• Serve hot with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Notes

• For a low-carb version, swap breadcrumbs for almond flour.
• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the cheese filling.
• For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• For an air fryer version, cook at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.