Crispy cheese-stuffed chicken is a delightful dish featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with melted cheese, coated in a crunchy golden crust. This dish combines a crispy texture with a rich, cheesy center, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The perfect balance of crispy coating and gooey melted cheese
- A restaurant-quality dish that is easy to prepare at home
- Versatile – pairs well with various side dishes like salads, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables
- Customizable with different cheese options and seasonings
- Great for family dinners or special occasions
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breasts
- Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your preferred type)
- Eggs
- Flour
- Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice a pocket into each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken: Insert cheese into the pocket, pressing the edges of the chicken together to seal.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each stuffed breast in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and coat with seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Chill (Optional): For a better crust, refrigerate the coated chicken for 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan and fry each breast until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Finish in the Oven: Transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg wash for a kick.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
- Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Herb-Crusted: Mix dried herbs like oregano or basil into the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
FAQs
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Ensure the chicken pocket is properly sealed by pressing the edges together and using toothpicks if necessary.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but they may require a longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
What is the best cheese for stuffing?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda work well because they melt nicely without becoming too runny.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread and refrigerate the stuffed chicken a few hours in advance before cooking.
Is it possible to air-fry this dish?
Yes, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I make the coating extra crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs and let the coated chicken rest in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before frying.
Can I add vegetables to the stuffing?
Absolutely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms make great additions.
What side dishes go well with crispy cheese-stuffed chicken?
Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad pair nicely.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute flour with cornstarch.
Can I cook this entirely in the oven?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Crispy cheese-stuffed chicken is a satisfying and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and adaptable to different tastes. Whether fried or baked, it offers a delightful contrast of textures with a cheesy, juicy interior and a golden, crispy exterior. Enjoy it as a main course with your favorite sides for a comforting and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crispy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken is a golden, crunchy delight with a gooey, cheesy center. Perfectly seasoned and fried to crispy perfection, this dish is a must-try for cheese lovers! Serve with a side of marinara sauce or a fresh salad for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Slice a pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff with Cheese: Fill each pocket with shredded mozzarella and press edges to seal.
- Season & Coat: Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Coat the chicken in flour.
- Dip & Bread: Mix eggs and milk. Dip chicken in the egg mixture, then coat with panko and Parmesan.
- Fry Until Golden: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve hot!
Notes
- Use a toothpick to secure the cheese inside if needed.
- Try different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for unique flavors.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes if you prefer a healthier version.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *