Hearty Mushroom and Herb Stuffed Chicken Breast

This wholesome and flavorful dish combines the earthy richness of mushrooms with a medley of fresh herbs, all enveloped in tender, juicy chicken breast. Perfect for a comforting yet elegant dinner, this recipe promises a delightful experience with every bite.

Servings: 4 Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button)- 1 small onion, finely chopped- 2 cloves garlic, minced- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese- 1/4 cup olive oil- Salt and pepper to taste- Kitchen twine or toothpicks

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Butterfly the Chicken Breasts: Using a sharp knife, cut a slit horizontally through the thickest part of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open each breast like a book.

3. Prepare the Mushroom and Herb Filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Mix the Herbs and Cheese: Once the mushrooms are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Stuff the Chicken Breasts: Spoon the mushroom and herb mixture into the slit of each chicken breast. Fold the chicken back over the filling and secure the edges with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep the filling inside.

6. Cook the Chicken: Heat the remaining olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side.

7. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

8. Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove the kitchen twine or toothpicks and serve the stuffed chicken breasts hot, possibly with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your Hearty Mushroom and Herb Stuffed Chicken Breast!