Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is a delightful twist on the classic Chicken Parmesan, with the addition of a cheesy, flavorful filling that makes the dish even more delicious and satisfying. Chicken breasts are pounded thin, stuffed with a mixture of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, along with fresh herbs, then breaded and baked to golden perfection. Topped with marinara sauce and more melted cheese, this dish is a perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors. It’s a comforting and impressive meal that’s great for a family dinner or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup olive oil, for frying
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form the filling.
- Stuff the Chicken: Place a few tablespoons of the cheese mixture in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the sides of the chicken over the filling to enclose it. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and coat with Italian breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently to ensure the coating sticks.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Bake the Chicken: Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the toothpicks (if used) and garnish with fresh basil. Serve the Stuffed Chicken Parmesan with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.
Stuffed Chicken Parmesan offers all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan with the added richness of a cheesy stuffing, making it an irresistible meal everyone will love!
