Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken
This Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that transforms weeknight dinner into a comforting feast.
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.