05/08/2025
**Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese**
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
3. Create a pocket in each chicken breast: place one hand on top of the breast and use a sharp knife to slice into the side of the breast, cutting to but not through the other side. Be careful not to cut the chicken breast all the way through.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts. Secure the open sides with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside.
5. Set up three plates: one with the all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper, the second with the beaten eggs, and the third with Italian breadcrumbs.
6. Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, followed by the Italian breadcrumbs, coating evenly.
7. Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large, oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken and cook until each side is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Pour marinara sauce over and around the browned chicken in the skillet. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top of each breast.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheeses are melted and bubbly.
10. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Discard toothpicks if used.
11. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped basil or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese!