Stuffed chicken breast

Delicious recipe for chicken breast stuffed with smoked ham and cheese - a perfect choice for a savory dinner

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a world full of quick and easy recipes, chicken breast stuffed with smoked ham and cheese remains a classic choice that impresses with its flavor and appearance. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile, allowing for adaptations based on your preferences. From adding fresh vegetables to varying the type of cheese, the combination of ingredients will bring a fresh touch to every meal.

A bit of history

Chicken breast is a beloved ingredient in many cultures due to its versatility and texture. Stuffings with meat and cheese are an age-old tradition that stems from the desire to maximize flavors and achieve a rich and satisfying result. This stuffed chicken breast recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends on a special occasion.

Ingredients

- 2 pieces of chicken breast (approximately 400-500g each)
- 14 slices of smoked ham (or your preferred type of smoked meat)
- 14 slices of cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- A bunch of green onions (approximately 100g)
- 150g cherry tomatoes (you can use garden tomatoes for a more attractive appearance)
- 2 teaspoons of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh parsley (for garnish)

Necessary utensils

- Meat cutter
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon
- Paper towels

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken breast thoroughly under cold water, then pat it dry with a paper towel to absorb excess water. This step is essential to ensure even browning during baking.

2. Slicing the chicken breast
With a sharp knife, slice the chicken breast lengthwise, about 1 cm apart, keeping a common base. Make sure not to cut all the way through, just enough to create "pockets" for the filling. This will allow the flavors to infuse into the meat during baking.

3. Stuffing the chicken breast
Place the chicken breast in a baking tray. Drizzle with a little olive oil to help it brown nicely. Between the slices of meat, add a slice of smoked ham and a slice of cheese. This combination will provide a savory taste and a creamy texture.

4. Seasoning
Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Add the dried basil, finely chopped green onions, and chopped parsley. These fresh herbs will add a wonderful aroma to your dish.

5. Adding the tomatoes
Peel the tomatoes (optional, if you prefer a finer texture) and cut them into small cubes. Sprinkle them evenly over the chicken breast, providing a pleasant contrast of acidity and freshness.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the tray with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove the foil to allow the chicken breast to brown nicely. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the chicken is well cooked and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

7. Serving
Once the chicken breast is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute in the meat, making it softer and juicier. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for an attractive appearance.

Serving suggestions
This stuffed chicken breast pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, baked potatoes, or a side of flavored rice. You can also accompany the meal with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing citrus-based cocktail.

Practical tips

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to change the flavor profile. Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for an even richer filling.
- Storage: Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat the chicken breast in the oven or microwave.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey breast instead of chicken? Yes, this recipe works great with turkey breast too, offering a leaner alternative.
- What can I do if I don't have basil? You can use oregano or thyme, which will add different but equally delicious flavors.

Nutritional benefits

This stuffed chicken breast recipe is rich in protein, thanks to the chicken and cheese. The tomatoes add antioxidants, while the fresh herbs contribute to the intake of vitamins and minerals. Depending on the sides, calories may vary, but a stuffed chicken breast contains approximately 350-400 calories per serving.

I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your taste. Let your imagination run wild and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: Two pieces of chicken breast, 14 slices of smoked ham, 14 slices of cheese, a bunch of green onions, a few garden tomatoes, two teaspoons of dried basil, salt and pepper to taste, 2-3 sprigs of fresh parsley.

 Tags:  stuffed chicken breast