Balsamic Glazed Stuffed Chicken with Pesto and Parmesan

This mouthwatering recipe combines the flavors of balsamic glaze, pesto, and Parmesan cheese stuffed inside tender chicken breasts. The chicken is seared to perfection and then baked in the oven until juicy and cooked through. Serve it with your favorite side dish for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons store-bought pesto
• 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal cut along the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Season the inside of each pocket with salt and black pepper.
4. Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto inside each pocket of the chicken breasts.
5. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese inside each pocket.
6. Close the pockets of the chicken breasts and secure with toothpicks.
7. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
10. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the vinegar has reduced by half.
11. Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened.
12. Remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top.
13. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with your favorite side dish.

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