Hearty Avocado-Stuffed Chicken Breast with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
This delicious meal combines the creaminess of avocado with the savory notes of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, all encased in juicy chicken breasts. It’s perfect for a special dinner or a simple weeknight treat, providing a burst of flavors in every bite. Follow the steps below to prepare this delightful dish:
Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Toothpicks
Instructions:
1. **Preheat Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Filling:**
In a medium bowl, mix together the diced avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts:**
Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal slit through the thickest part of each chicken breast to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. **Stuff the Chicken:**
Spoon equal amounts of the avocado mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Use toothpicks to secure the edges and keep the filling inside.
5. **Sear the Chicken:**
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. **Bake the Chicken:**
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. **Serve:**
Remove the toothpicks and serve the avocado-stuffed chicken breasts hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures in this avocado-stuffed chicken dish, perfect for any occasion!