Cream Cheese Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like Chicken Parmesan. Now, imagine taking that classic dish and elevating it with a lovely twist of creaminess. That’s where my Cream Cheese Chicken Parmesan comes in. This delightful recipe is not only easy to make but also utterly satisfying, perfect for a family dinner that feels special without the fuss. Let’s dive into this deliciousness together.

Why You’ll Love It

This Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese is a game-changer in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken breasts, savory seasonings, and creamy filling creates an irresistible dish that even picky eaters will adore. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, serve it with pasta, a salad, or on its own, and you’ve got a winner on your hands. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation.

Ingredients

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for cooking
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, butterly the chicken breasts to create a pocket for the creamy filling.

Step 2:

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, half the mozzarella, half the Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3:

Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture, sealing it with toothpicks if needed. You want all that creamy goodness to stay inside while it bakes.

Step 4:

In an oven-safe skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts, browning them for about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Step 5:

Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top, and transfer the skillet to the oven.

Step 6:

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information

One serving of this Cream Cheese Chicken Parmesan typically contains around 350-400 calories, with a good balance of protein and fats from the chicken and cheese. It’s a hearty meal but can easily be balanced with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using low-fat cream cheese or swapping out half of the cheese for spinach or arugula. You can also bake the chicken without any oil to cut down on fat. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, you can cater it to your dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cream Cheese Chicken Parmesan with a side of whole-grain pasta drizzled with olive oil and topped with fresh herbs. You could also pair it with garlic bread or a zesty Italian salad to balance the richness of the dish. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh basil on top, it’s the perfect finishing touch.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). Also, don’t skimp on the seasoning, great flavor is key. And when stuffing the chicken, make sure you don’t overfill it; otherwise, the filling might ooze out during cooking.

Chef’s Notes

• If you want to spice things up, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
• This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it.
• For a little added crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  A1: Absolutely; You can prepare the stuffed chicken a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
• Q2: What do I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
  A2: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.
• Q3: Can I freeze leftover Chicken Parmesan?
  A3: Yes, you can freeze leftovers; Just ensure they’re in an airtight container, and reheat in the oven when ready to eat.

As you explore this Cream Cheese Chicken Parmesan Delight, I hope it brings warmth to your kitchen just as it does in mine. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, remember that cooking is all about love. And don’t forget, if you enjoy this dish, you might also like my Chicken Alfredo Recipe or give the ever-popular Chicken Marsala Recipe a try. Happy cooking!

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