If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner game, look no further than this delightful Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken. This dish combines the rich, creamy flavors of pimento cheese with tender chicken breasts, creating a comforting yet sophisticated meal that’s sure to impress your family and guests alike. Imagine sinking your fork into a perfectly cooked chicken breast, bursting with the savory goodness of cheese, bacon, and just a hint of spice. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and homey comfort. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
What Makes This Recipe Special
Pimento cheese has long been a beloved Southern staple, known for its creamy texture and distinct flavor profile. In this recipe, we take that classic spread and transform it into a mouthwatering stuffing for chicken breasts. The addition of crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor that complements the richness of the cheese beautifully. This Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly versatile. It can be served with a variety of sides, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons diced pimentos, drained well
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- pinch of garlic powder
- pinch of cayenne pepper
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Recommended Tools
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the cheese mixture.
- Meat Mallet: For flattening the chicken breasts to make stuffing easier.
- Baking Dish: To bake the stuffed chicken to perfection.
- Skillet: For cooking the chicken and achieving a golden-brown crust.
From Start to Finish: Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, diced pimentos, sliced green onions, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This rich filling is what will make your chicken breasts shine.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and allows for a generous amount of stuffing.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Season each chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Spoon a generous amount of the pimento cheese mixture into the center of each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over the filling, and secure it with toothpicks if necessary to keep the cheese from spilling out during cooking.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
In a shallow bowl, beat the large egg. Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat them in dry breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the butter and vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step will create a beautiful crust on the outside.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish and place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and oozy, making every bite a delight.
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
- Seasonal Vegetables: Serve with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Herb Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a festive touch.
- Holiday Sides: Pair with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a holiday feast.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
- Feel free to customize the filling based on your taste preferences. You can add jalapeños for a spicier kick or substitute the bacon with cooked sausage for a different flavor.
- If you have leftover filling, it makes a great spread for crackers or a sandwich filler!
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. You can also freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese for the stuffing?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a smoky flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What should I serve with Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. Choose sides that complement the richness of the chicken.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling is a fantastic option! Just be sure to secure the filling well and monitor the chicken closely to avoid flare-ups. Grill over medium heat until cooked through.
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See You at the Table
This Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes warmth and comfort. As you serve this dish, watch as your loved ones savor each bite, relishing in the creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Meat Mallet
- Baking Dish
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 tablespoons diced pimentos drained well
- 2 green onions sliced
- 2 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- pinch garlic powder
- pinch cayenne pepper
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, diced pimentos, sliced green onions, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Prepare the Chicken
- Take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick.
Stuff the Chicken
- Season each chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Spoon a generous amount of the pimento cheese mixture into the center of each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over the filling, and secure it with toothpicks if necessary.
Prepare for Baking
- In a shallow bowl, beat the large egg. Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the egg, allowing excess to drip off, then coat them in dry breadcrumbs.
Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the butter and vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until fully cooked and cheese is melted.
Notes
- Customize the filling by adding jalapeños for heat or substituting bacon with sausage for different flavors.
- Leftover filling makes a great spread for crackers or sandwiches.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze unbaked stuffed chicken for up to 3 months.
