If you’re looking for a recipe that’s sure to impress and satisfy, look no further than this Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken. It’s a perfect blend of savory chicken, delicious ham, and creamy cheese that will make everyone at the table ask for seconds. This dish is not only mouthwateringly good but also relatively simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Olive oil, for greasing the baking dish
- 8 slices of ham
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a clean surface. Season each side with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This will add a wonderful flavor base to your dish.
- Slice the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Be sure not to cut all the way through.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Fill the Chicken: Carefully stuff each chicken breast with a generous amount of the cheese filling. Press the edges of the chicken together to seal.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Wrap with Ham: Place two slices of ham over each stuffed chicken breast, wrapping them securely around the chicken. This adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the cheese filling intact.
- Place in Baking Dish: Arrange the wrapped chicken breasts in the greased baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Uncover and Broil: Remove the foil and switch the oven to broil. Broil the chicken for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the ham is slightly crispy and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve: Serve the ham and cheese stuffed chicken hot, paired with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for the Perfect Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality chicken, ham, and cheese will make a significant difference in the flavor of your dish.
- Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts as this can cause the filling to spill out during cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the cheese filling to suit your taste. Fresh basil or thyme can add a unique twist.
This Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy cheese filling creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the joy of cooking this easy yet impressive meal. Bon appétit!
