Creamy Tuscan Stuffed Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy blend of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheese, then cooked in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. This dish combines classic Italian flavors for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines rich, creamy, and savory flavors in every bite
• Perfect for a special dinner yet easy enough for a weeknight meal
• Uses simple, wholesome ingredients
• Pairs well with pasta, rice, or a side of roasted vegetables
• A great way to elevate chicken breast into something extraordinary

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Fresh spinach
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Cream cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Stuff the chicken: Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. Fill each pocket with the prepared mixture and secure with toothpicks.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, add Parmesan cheese, and stir until the sauce thickens.
5. Simmer the chicken: Return the stuffed chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Serve: Remove the toothpicks and spoon the creamy Tuscan sauce over the chicken. Serve warm with your favorite side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an extra layer of umami flavor.
• Use different cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone or Gouda for a slightly different taste.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Swap the protein: Use boneless pork chops instead of chicken for a unique twist.
• Bake it: Instead of cooking on the stovetop, bake the stuffed chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked stuffed chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

How do I prevent the filling from spilling out?

Use toothpicks to secure the chicken pocket, and avoid overstuffing.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the chicken in advance, then store it in the fridge until ready to cook.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, but boneless thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

What kind of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

Can I cook this in the oven instead of on the stovetop?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer longer or add a bit more Parmesan cheese to help thicken the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Stuffed Chicken is a delightful, indulgent meal that is both elegant and easy to prepare. With its rich, cheesy filling and flavorful sauce, it is a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions. Serve it with your favorite side for a complete, satisfying meal.

Cheesy Chicken Puff Pastry Roll

Short Description

Cheesy Chicken Puff Pastry Roll is a flaky, golden-brown pastry filled with a creamy, cheesy chicken mixture. This savory dish is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, offering a delightful balance of crispiness and rich, melty goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Features a buttery, flaky puff pastry with a creamy, cheesy filling
• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Perfect for parties, brunch, or a satisfying meal
• Can be customized with different cheeses and seasonings
• Freezes well, making it a great make-ahead option

Ingredients

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

• Puff pastry sheets
• Cooked chicken (shredded)
• Cream cheese
• Cheddar cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper
• Egg (for egg wash)
• Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out the pastry: Place the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out slightly to smooth the edges.
4. Fill and roll: Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the pastry into a log, sealing the edges by pressing them together.
5. Apply egg wash: Beat an egg and brush it over the pastry to give it a golden, glossy finish.
6. Bake: Transfer the roll to the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Slice and serve: Let it cool slightly before slicing into pieces. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Mix in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Use different cheese: Try Gouda, Swiss, or feta for a unique twist.
• Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• BBQ twist: Mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
• Breakfast version: Add scrambled eggs and bacon for a morning treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the unbaked roll tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the roll and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

What type of puff pastry should I use?

Store-bought frozen puff pastry works well; just ensure it’s fully thawed before using.

How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure the chicken filling is not too wet and avoid overstuffing.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.

What dipping sauces pair well with this?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a garlic aioli complement the flavors nicely.

Can I add bacon?

Yes, crumbled cooked bacon adds a smoky, savory touch.

How do I get an extra crispy crust?

Brush the pastry with an extra layer of egg wash and bake on a preheated baking sheet.

Can I make mini versions of this?

Yes, cut the puff pastry into smaller rectangles and roll them into bite-sized portions.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, both baked and unbaked versions can be frozen for later use.

What can I serve with this?

A fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a warm bowl of soup make great sides.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Puff Pastry Roll is a simple yet indulgent dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its crispy, golden crust and rich, cheesy filling, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it fresh from the oven with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious and satisfying treat.