Name: Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a savory blend of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and creamy melted cheese, all baked in a rich garlic butter sauce. This indulgent yet simple dish makes for a perfect comforting dinner that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of meal that’s sure to impress guests or satisfy the family on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add chopped mushrooms and thyme, cooking until mushrooms are tender and any liquid has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese into the mushroom mixture.

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.

Stuff each pocket generously with the mushroom and cheese mixture.

In an oven-safe skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.

Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Add spinach: For a little extra greenery, I like to add spinach to the mushroom mixture. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Swap the cheese: If you want a different cheese flavor, try using cheddar, gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

Make it spicy: Add a bit of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for some heat.

Chicken thighs instead of breasts: If I’m craving a bit more richness, I’ll use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is perfect for meal prep! I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave if you’re in a rush, though it might not get the crispy edges back.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! I sometimes prefer chicken thighs for their juicier texture, so feel free to swap them out. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! I often prepare the stuffed chicken breasts earlier in the day, refrigerate them, and bake them later. Just make sure to bake them for a few extra minutes since they’ll be coming from the fridge.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

I use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Another trick is to cut into the chicken to check if the juices run clear.

Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?

Yes! I love freezing these for later. After stuffing and searing the chicken, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just bake it directly from frozen, adding a bit more time to ensure it cooks through.

What can I serve this dish with?

I like pairing this cheesy stuffed chicken with a simple salad, roasted veggies, or a side of mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with rice or pasta for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

This cheesy garlic butter mushroom stuffed chicken is one of those dishes that’s both comforting and indulgent. The combination of juicy chicken, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether I’m making it for a special dinner or a simple weeknight meal, it never disappoints.