This ham and cheese stuffed chicken breast is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken hugs savory ham and melty cheese, making every bite super satisfying. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
I love how easy it is to make this dish. Just stuff, bake, and enjoy! It’s great for dinner and even better as leftovers. Who doesn’t love a cheesy surprise? 🧀🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for stuffing. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breasts can work too. Just ensure they’re thick enough to hold the filling!
Ham: I like using deli ham for its flavor and convenience. If you want a healthier choice, try turkey ham or leave it out for a vegetarian version and replace it with veggies like spinach or roasted peppers.
Cheese: Swiss or cheddar cheese adds a nice melty texture. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Olive Oil: This oil is great for searing. You can also use avocado oil or butter for a different flavor. Both have high smoke points, which are nice when cooking at medium-high heat!
How Do I Make Perfect Chicken Pockets?
Creating pockets in chicken breasts is simple but important for stuffing. Here’s how to do it without risking a cut-through:
- Place the chicken breast on a stable cutting board.
- Hold the chicken steady with one hand and use a sharp knife to slice horizontally through one side, leaving at least a half-inch uncut on the other side.
- Make sure to start at the thicker side of the breast for even stuffing.
This method will help keep your stuffing inside while cooking!
How to Make Ham Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or cheddar)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for cooking, plus some resting time after baking. In total, plan for about 40 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important so that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally along one side. Be gentle so you don’t cut all the way through.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take a moment to season each chicken breast inside and out. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over them. This will add great flavor to your chicken!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Now it’s time to add the good stuff! Stuff each pocket of the chicken breasts with 2 slices of ham and about ¼ cup of shredded cheese. Be generous; you want them delicious!
5. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Allow them to sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown. This adds wonderful flavor to the chicken.
6. Bake the Chicken:
After searing, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures that your chicken is safe and ready to eat.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven (careful, it’s hot!). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps it stay juicy. Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top before serving.
8. Enjoy:
Dig into your delicious ham and cheese stuffed chicken breast! It’s savory, cheesy, and sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss and cheddar work great, feel free to substitute with your favorite melting cheeses like mozzarella or provolone. Just keep in mind that different cheeses might slightly alter the flavor, so choose one that you love!
What Should I Do If I Can’t Find Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts?
No problem! You can use bone-in chicken breasts; just adjust the cooking time to about 30-35 minutes in the oven. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, place in the microwave or in an oven set to low heat, covered with foil, to keep them from drying out.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time! Just cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you place them in the oven straight from the fridge, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re cooked through.
