Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken has become a delightful staple in my kitchen, combining tender chicken breasts with rich goat cheese and sweet caramelized onions. This easy goat cheese stuffed chicken recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time, you can create a dish that impresses family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
This goat cheese stuffed chicken stands out for several reasons. First, it offers a delightful blend of flavors, thanks to the creamy goat cheese and caramelized onions. The dish is also gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets. You can prepare it in less than an hour, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different herbs and spices. The combination of savory cheese and sweet onions creates a perfect harmony that will satisfy your taste buds. Plus, it can be served in multiple ways, making it ideal for any meal. Lastly, it’s an impressive dish that looks and tastes gourmet, yet is simple to prepare.
Ingredients for Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Gather these items:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
How to Make Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Step 4: Stuff the goat cheese mixture evenly into the pockets of the chicken breasts.
- Step 5: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
- Step 6: Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for 2 more minutes.
- Step 7: Deglaze the pan with the balsamic vinegar and stir in the brown sugar. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is thickened.
- Step 8: Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and top them with the caramelized onions.
- Step 9: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Step 10: Garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure that the goat cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t overstuff the chicken pockets to avoid any cheese spilling during cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain moisture.
- Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or basil for extra flavor.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Best Ways to Serve Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
There are several delightful ways to serve your goat cheese stuffed chicken. Pair it with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a light meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa for a heartier option. This dish can also be sliced and added to a warm pasta salad, combining flavors perfectly. For a gourmet touch, drizzle the chicken with a balsamic reduction before serving.
How to Store and Reheat Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
To store any leftovers, place the goat cheese stuffed chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This meal is also great for meal prep, as you can prepare it in advance and reheat when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
What’s the secret to perfect Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken?
The secret lies in properly seasoning the goat cheese and not overcooking the chicken. Keeping the chicken juicy ensures a tender bite with every forkful.
Can I make Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and stuff it a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge and bake it when you’re ready.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken?
To avoid drying out the chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Also, ensure the pockets are not overstuffed to prevent spillage during cooking.
Variations of Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken You Can Try
There are several variations to explore. Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the goat cheese filling for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, spice things up with jalapeños for heat or incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh twist. For a Mediterranean flair, use feta cheese instead of goat cheese. Each variation offers a unique twist on this already delicious dish!
For more delicious recipes, check out Mediterranean Chicken or Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit Easy Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken.
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Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken: 4 Irresistible Flavors
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in the delectable flavors of Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts with caramelized onions – a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stuff the goat cheese mixture evenly into the pockets of the chicken breasts.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for 2 more minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with the balsamic vinegar and stir in the brown sugar. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is thickened.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and top them with the caramelized onions.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken, Chicken Recipe, Goat Cheese, Caramelized Onions
