Chicken breasts are a versatile and healthy protein, but they often need a little flair to elevate their flavor. Enter balsamic goat cheese stuffed chicken breasts—a dish that combines tangy goat cheese, earthy balsamic glaze, and tender chicken for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a showstopper.
Ingredients
To make this delightful dish, you will need:
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz (115 g) goat cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the balsamic glaze:
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
Additional:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and minced garlic until well combined. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pocket with the goat cheese mixture. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside.
- Season the Chicken:
- Rub the outside of each chicken breast with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze:
- While the chicken is baking, heat balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens into a glaze.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken and garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor.
- Additional Flavor: Add chopped spinach or caramelized onions to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: Stuff the chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp arugula salad. For a wine pairing, opt for a light Pinot Noir or a chilled Sauvignon Blanc to complement the tangy and savory flavors.
Why You’ll Love It
Balsamic goat cheese stuffed chicken breasts strike the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance. With a creamy, flavorful filling and a sweet yet tart glaze, this recipe transforms an everyday ingredient into a gourmet delight. It’s sure to impress your family and guests alike.
Enjoy creating this culinary masterpiece that promises to be both delicious and memorable!