Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast is a deliciously tender chicken dish featuring boneless skinless chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella cheese, coated in a flavorful seasoned breadcrumb mixture, seared to golden perfection, and finished by baking in a rich marinara sauce. This recipe yields a juicy, cheesy entrée perfect for dinner that combines Italian-inspired flavors with comforting textures.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Chicken and Cheese
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Breading and Seasoning
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to prepare for finishing the chicken baking process after searing.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Arrange three separate dishes: the first with 1 cup all-purpose flour, the second with 2 whisked large eggs, and the third with a mixture of 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon dried onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Season each with salt and pepper and set aside.
- Stuff the Chicken: Use a paring knife to cut deep pockets into each chicken breast. Stuff each pocket with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, then press the edges firmly to seal. Season both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the Chicken: Coat each stuffed chicken breast first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture ensuring an even layer.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, until both sides turn golden brown. This step cooks the exterior and locks in moisture but does not cook the chicken fully.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce into a baking pan. Transfer the seared chicken breasts into the pan, nestling them in the sauce.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This final step melts the mozzarella inside and allows the chicken to finish cooking perfectly.
Notes
- Ensure the mozzarella cheese slices are not too thick to allow the chicken to close properly without cheese leaking during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken for safe consumption.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide an extra crispy coating; substitute with regular breadcrumbs if necessary, but the texture will be different.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a side of pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
