This mushroom-stuffed chicken breasts recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of mushrooms, herbs, and cheese, then topped with a tangy balsamic pan sauce. It's a perfect dish for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. The combination of juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and tangy balsamic creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the fresh thyme and cook for an additional minute.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the mushroom mixture cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mushroom mixture with the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pocket with the mushroom mixture, dividing it evenly among the chicken breasts.
- In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a baking dish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Meanwhile, return the skillet to the stovetop and add the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a boil and let it simmer until the liquid is reduced by half.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Once the chicken is done baking, pour the balsamic pan sauce over the chicken breasts.
- Serve the mushroom-stuffed chicken breasts with the delicious pan sauce and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants and beneficial nutrients.
The balsamic pan sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
This recipe can be easily adapted by using different types of mushrooms or adding additional herbs and spices to the stuffing mixture.