Crispy Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken

Crispy Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken is a delicious dish featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with melted mozzarella cheese, coated in a golden, crispy crust. With a perfect balance of crunch and gooey cheese, this recipe is great for a family dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with a side of pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Cheesy – The golden breadcrumb coating provides a satisfying crunch, while the melted mozzarella creates a rich, gooey center.
• Juicy and Flavorful – Sealing the cheese inside keeps the chicken moist and full of flavor.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Enjoy an elegant yet easy dish without the need for takeout.
• Versatile – Pair with pasta, mashed potatoes, or fresh greens for a delicious meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Mozzarella cheese (sliced or shredded)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Olive oil or butter (for cooking)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice the Chicken – Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.
2. Season – Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning inside and outside the chicken.

Step 2: Stuff the Chicken

1. Fill with Mozzarella – Stuff each chicken breast with slices of mozzarella.
2. Seal the Edges – Use toothpicks or press the edges firmly to help keep the cheese inside.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Set Up Breading Station – Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a third.
2. Dredge the Chicken – Coat each stuffed chicken breast in flour, then dip in eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat Oil – In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sear the Chicken – Cook each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Bake (Optional for Extra Crispiness) – Transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Serve with pasta, salad, or a side of marinara sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the seasoning for extra heat.
• Different Cheeses – Use provolone, gouda, or cheddar for a different flavor.
• Herb Crust – Mix fresh parsley or basil into the breadcrumbs for extra aroma.
• Baked-Only Version – Skip the skillet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until crispy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for a crispy finish.
• Freezing – Freeze uncooked breaded chicken breasts and bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the edges tightly with toothpicks and avoid overstuffing.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, but they may require longer cooking time due to their thickness.

What’s the best way to get a crispy coating?

Use panko breadcrumbs and bake after pan-frying for an extra crunchy texture.

Can I air-fry this recipe?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I serve with mozzarella-stuffed chicken?

Pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a Caesar salad pair well.

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?

Yes, but fresh mozzarella slices melt better and provide a creamier texture.

Should I cover the chicken while baking?

No, keeping it uncovered ensures a crispy coating.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before cooking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

Conclusion

Crispy Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken is an irresistible dish with its golden crust, melted cheese, and juicy chicken. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors at home. Try it today and impress your family with a satisfying, cheesy delight!