- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
For the Mushroom Filling:
- 8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for richness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
πͺ Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the center (don’t cut all the way through). Open them up like a book and season the inside with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and mushrooms and sautΓ© for 5–6 minutes until softened and golden. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Divide the mushroom mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, mounding it in the center. Fold the chicken closed and secure with toothpicks or skewers if needed.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 5: Bake Until Tender
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes , or until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.
Step 6: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add cream (if using) and simmer slightly.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Top each chicken breast with garlic butter sauce and fresh parsley. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
π½ Serving Suggestions
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower.
- Serve over pasta or risotto for a heartier meal.
- Try with a side salad and crusty bread for a balanced dinner.
- Drizzle extra garlic butter over everything for maximum flavor.
π§ Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to preserve texture.
- Freeze uncooked stuffed chicken for up to 3 months — thaw and cook as directed.
π± Dietary Modifications & Substitutions
- Low-Carb/Keto Option : Skip added sugar, use keto-friendly cheeses, and serve with cauliflower mash.
- Gluten-Free : Naturally gluten-free — just ensure all additives are GF certified.
- Dairy-Free : Use vegan butter, dairy-free cheese, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Vegetarian Alternative : Substitute chicken with thick eggplant slices or portobello mushrooms.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this entirely on the stovetop?
Yes! Cook on low heat with a lid for 25–30 minutes, flipping occasionally, until done.
What kind of cheese works best?
A mix of Parmesan for flavor and mozzarella or cheddar for meltiness gives the best results.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook! Use a meat thermometer — chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) .
π Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken is more than just a dinner — it’s a full sensory experience. With its tender meat, savory mushroom filling, and rich garlic butter finish, it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a pro chef — even if you’re just cooking in your pajamas.
So go ahead, stuff that chicken, drizzle on the butter, and enjoy every single bite.