Cheesy stuffed chicken breasts with potatoes is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts stuffed with cheese and tomatoes, paired with perfectly seasoned potato slices. The result is a flavorful and comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your favorite)
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice Chicken Breasts: Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff Chicken: Place 2 slices of cheese and 2 slices of tomato inside each chicken breast pocket.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the outside of each chicken breast.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Slice and Season Potatoes: Place the potato slices in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Layer the Potatoes: In a large baking dish, layer the seasoned potato slices evenly on the bottom.
- Add the Chicken: Place the stuffed and seasoned chicken breasts on top of the potato layer.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 4: Serve
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the cheesy stuffed chicken breasts hot, along with the baked potatoes.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken Marinade: For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in the seasoning mixture for 30 minutes to 2 hours before stuffing and baking.
- Potato Slices: Ensure the potato slices are evenly cut to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Covering the Dish: Covering the dish with foil initially helps the potatoes cook through without drying out the chicken. Removing the foil later allows the chicken and potatoes to develop a nice, golden brown color.
Variations
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken:
- Replace the cheese and tomato with a mixture of fresh spinach leaves and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Mushroom and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken:
- Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and butter, then stuff the chicken breasts with the mushrooms and slices of mozzarella cheese.
Herb Roasted Potatoes:
- Add a variety of fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, and basil to the potato seasoning for a fresh and aromatic flavor.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Chicken Cuts: You can use bone-in chicken thighs for a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Potato Varieties: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well for this recipe, providing a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Even Cooking: Ensure that the chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Sauces: A side of garlic aioli or a light gravy can complement the flavors of the dish nicely.
- Garnishes: Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or chives can add a fresh touch to the final presentation.
Cheesy stuffed chicken breasts with potatoes is a delicious and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family. With its tender chicken and perfectly roasted potatoes, it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy this classic recipe on busy weeknights or as a cozy weekend dinner.
