Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Heavenly Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Succulent chicken breasts take on a whole new dimension with this mouthwatering cheesy garlic butter mushroom stuffed chicken recipe.

Earthy mushrooms sautéed in rich garlic butter create an irresistible filling that melts into every tender bite.

The combination of creamy cheese and savory mushrooms transforms an ordinary chicken dish into something extraordinary.

Each slice reveals a beautiful interior packed with flavor and texture that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

The recipe strikes a perfect balance between elegance and comfort food, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Packed with robust ingredients and simple techniques, this dish promises to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

What’s Needed for Parmesan Chicken Rice

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: A lean meat that serves as the main vessel for the delicious stuffing in this recipe.
Stuffing Ingredients:
  • Mushrooms, Garlic: Provides a rich, earthy flavor and aromatic base for the chicken filling.
  • Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Adds creamy texture and sharp, tangy flavor to the mushroom mixture.
Cooking and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil, Butter: Creates a flavorful base for sautéing and helps develop a golden brown exterior on the chicken.
  • Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Enhances the overall taste profile and adds depth to the dish.
  • Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish that provides a fresh, bright color and subtle herbal note.
Cooking Accessories:
  • Toothpicks: Used to secure the stuffed chicken and keep the filling inside during cooking.

Steps for Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice

Step 1: Create Chicken Pockets

Carefully slice each chicken breast lengthwise, forming a delicate pocket without cutting completely through.

This technique will allow you to stuff the chicken with a delightful mixture of mushrooms and cheese.

Step 2: Sauté Mushroom Filling

Heat a pan with olive oil and butter over medium heat.

Add mushrooms and garlic, cooking until they become wonderfully soft and fragrant.

Season the mixture with:
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown.

Step 3: Blend Cheesy Goodness

Combine the sautéed mushrooms with:
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese

Mix thoroughly to create a rich, creamy filling that will make your chicken irresistible.

Step 4: Stuff and Secure Chicken

Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the mushroom-cheese mixture.

Use toothpicks to seal the openings and prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.

Step 5: Sear to Golden Perfection

In the same pan, sear the stuffed chicken breasts until they develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side to create a delicious crispy surface.

Step 6: Bake to Completion

Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and slide into a preheated oven at 375°F.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Serve hot and enjoy your gourmet stuffed chicken breasts!

Tips for Cheesy Chicken & Rice Success

  • Create a pocket in the chicken breast without cutting through completely to ensure even stuffing and prevent filling from leaking.
  • Cook mushrooms and garlic until they release moisture and become golden, enhancing their rich, deep flavor profile.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe, perfectly cooked meat without drying out.
  • Insert toothpicks carefully to keep the cheesy mushroom mixture inside during searing and baking.
  • Sprinkle fresh parsley just before serving to add a bright, fresh note and elevate the dish's visual appeal.

Ways to Remix Parmesan Chicken & Rice

  • Keto-Friendly Option: Replace mozzarella and Parmesan with full-fat cream cheese and use almond flour for coating instead of traditional breading, maintaining low-carb profile.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken with large portobello mushroom caps, stuff with cheese mixture, and bake for a hearty plant-based version that preserves original flavor profile.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese, incorporate cashew cream for richness, and swap butter with olive oil to accommodate lactose-intolerant preferences.
  • Mediterranean Spin: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to mushroom mixture, sprinkle with feta cheese, and finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for enhanced Mediterranean flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Rice

  • Elegant Dinner Party Centerpiece: Impress guests by presenting the stuffed chicken on a large white platter, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by roasted vegetables for a stunning visual display.
  • Hearty Meal Companion: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice pilaf to complement the rich, cheesy mushroom filling and create a satisfying complete meal.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection: Choose a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the rich, savory flavors of the chicken and enhance the overall dining experience.
  • Healthy Side Balance: Add a light mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness and provide a fresh, nutritious counterpoint to the decadent stuffed chicken.

Parmesan Chicken Rice Storage

  • Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap individual chicken pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Frozen stuffed chicken can last up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking and maintaining moisture.

FAQs

  • Why should I sear the chicken before baking?

Searing locks in moisture, creates a delicious golden crust, and enhances the flavor of the chicken before finishing it in the oven.

  • Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with similar melting cheeses like provolone, fontina, or Swiss cheese to suit your taste preference.

  • How do I prevent the stuffing from falling out during cooking?

Use toothpicks to secure the chicken breast’s opening and ensure a tight seal, which helps keep the mushroom and cheese mixture inside while cooking.

  • What's the best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), which ensures the chicken is safely cooked through without becoming dry.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Dish

  • Elevate Dinner: Transform ordinary chicken into a gourmet experience with restaurant-quality flavors and impressive presentation.
  • Quick and Simple Prep: Create a delicious meal with minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques that even novice cooks can master.
  • Protein-Packed Comfort: Combine lean chicken with rich, cheesy mushroom filling for a satisfying and nutritious dinner that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for weeknight family dinners, date nights, or entertaining guests with its elegant appearance and irresistible taste.
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Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe


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4.6 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent chicken breasts filled with garlic mushroom magic become an irresistible dinner centerpiece for weeknight meals. Rich parmesan and herb-infused mushrooms nestled inside juicy chicken promise a luxurious culinary experience you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Cheese:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters/8 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters/2 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Fats and Cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) unsalted butter

Vegetables:

  • 3 cups (720 milliliters/12 ounces) sliced mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F, creating an ideal cooking environment for the stuffed chicken.
  2. Carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing lengthwise, ensuring the cut doesn’t separate the meat completely.
  3. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat, then gently sauté mushrooms and garlic until they become tender and release their aromatic flavors.
  4. Season the mushroom mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance the overall taste profile.
  5. Combine the cooked mushrooms with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and creamy filling.
  6. Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the mushroom-cheese mixture, using toothpicks to seal and prevent the filling from escaping.
  7. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts in the same pan, browning each side for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden, crispy exterior.
  8. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing the chicken is fully cooked.
  10. Optional: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken before serving to add a touch of color and fresh herb flavor.

Notes

  • Keep chicken breasts similar in size to ensure even cooking and consistent stuffing distribution.
  • Pat chicken dry before slicing to help achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent excess moisture.
  • Use a sharp knife when creating the pocket to minimize tearing and maintain chicken’s structural integrity.
  • Low-moisture mozzarella works best to prevent soggy filling and help cheese melt smoothly inside chicken.
  • For gluten-free option, replace Italian seasoning with dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano blend.
  • Check internal temperature with meat thermometer for precise doneness and food safety.
  • Can substitute mushrooms with spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for alternative flavor profiles.
  • Toothpicks should be removed before serving to prevent accidental biting or choking hazard.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 370 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 42 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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