Garlic-Lemon Double Stuffed Chicken
Are you looking for a mouthwatering chicken recipe that will wow your taste buds? Look no further than this delicious Garlic-Lemon Double Stuffed Chicken. This recipe combines the flavors of garlic and lemon with tender chicken to create a dish that is bursting with flavor. So, let’s dive in and discover how to make this delectable dish!
Preparing the Chicken
First things first, let’s talk about preparing the chicken. To start, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These are perfect for stuffing because they are easy to work with and cook evenly. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and make a deep incision lengthwise, creating a pocket for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through!
Next, it’s time to season the chicken. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on both sides of the breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. This will help to enhance the flavors of the dish. Now, it’s time to move on to the star of the show – the garlic and lemon stuffing!
The Garlic and Lemon Stuffing
Imagine the zesty tang of lemon combined with the aromatic essence of garlic. It’s a match made in culinary heaven! To create the stuffing, mix together minced garlic, lemon zest, and a touch of olive oil in a small bowl. This tantalizing mixture will infuse the chicken with incredible flavors.
Now it’s time to stuff the chicken breasts. Take a spoonful of the garlic-lemon mixture and carefully place it into the pocket you created earlier. Be generous with the stuffing – the more, the merrier! Once the chicken is stuffed, use toothpicks to secure the opening and prevent the stuffing from spilling out during cooking.
Cooking to Perfection
With the preparation complete, it’s time to cook the Garlic-Lemon Double Stuffed Chicken to perfection. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for a few minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
Once the chicken is seared, transfer it to a baking dish and continue cooking it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. The result? Tender, juicy chicken with a burst of garlic and lemon in every bite!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.
2. Can I substitute the garlic with another herb?
While garlic adds a distinct flavor to this recipe, you can experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or thyme. Just keep in mind that it will alter the overall taste of the dish.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook. Just make sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for future meals. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of lemon?
Yes, you can experiment with other citrus fruits such as lime or orange. Each fruit will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.
6. Can I add cheese to the stuffing?
Absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add some shredded mozzarella or feta cheese to the stuffing for an extra creamy and cheesy twist.
7. Can I cook this recipe on the grill?
Yes, you can definitely cook this recipe on the grill. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
8. What side dishes pair well with Garlic-Lemon Double Stuffed Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The choice is yours!
Conclusion
There you have it – a tantalizing recipe for Garlic-Lemon Double Stuffed Chicken. With its flavorful garlic and lemon stuffing, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe is a winner. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the burst of flavors in every bite!
Garlic-Lemon Double Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- Oil , for greasing pan
- 8 boneless , skinless chicken breast halves
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese , sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 package (8 ounces) Cheddar cheese , sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated Romano cheese
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt , or to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Lightly grease a large, shallow baking dish with oil.
- Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally, without cutting all the way through, creating a butterfly shape.
- Place one slice of Cheddar and cream cheese in the center of each chicken breast.
- Close the chicken breast, as if closing a book, to seal the cheese inside. Set aside.
- Pour milk into a shallow bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs and Romano cheese.
- Dip each chicken breast first in milk, then in the breadcrumb mixture, patting lightly to coat it evenly.
- Place the chicken breasts side by side in a single layer in the pre-greased baking dish, tucking the edges under to seal.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in lemon juice and garlic, then drizzle the mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic salt and paprika, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
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