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Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 12 reviews

Delicious and healthy pesto stuffed chicken breasts with a creamy cream cheese filling, coated in crispy breadcrumbs and baked to perfection. This flavorful and easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a nutritious dinner that combines protein with the fresh taste of basil pesto.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons basil pesto
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Coating

  • 1 egg
  • 2/3 cup breadcrumb mix
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or grease it well with cooking spray. Alternatively, place a rack on the baking sheet for even cooking.
  2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, basil pesto, and a pinch of pepper together with a fork until smooth and well blended. Set aside.
  3. Prepare and Stuff the Chicken Breasts: Carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing lengthwise along the thin side without cutting all the way through. Stuff each pocket generously with the cream cheese and pesto mixture. Seal the openings by pressing the edges together or securing with toothpicks. Season each stuffed breast with salt and pepper.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Beat the egg in a bowl until well mixed. Place the breadcrumbs in a separate shallow dish. Dip each stuffed chicken breast first into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until evenly covered.
  5. Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step develops a flavorful crust and an appealing golden color.
  6. Bake and Serve: Transfer the browned chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Notes

  • You can use homemade or store-bought basil pesto depending on your preference.
  • Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially if your pesto contains salt.
  • Use toothpicks to keep the chicken pockets securely closed during cooking if needed.
  • Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
  • This recipe pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto stuffed chicken, creamy chicken breast, healthy chicken recipe, baked chicken, pesto chicken, stuffed chicken breasts

Find it online: https://leofoster.com/healthy-pesto-stuffed-chicken-breast-recipe/