My Chicken Breast Stuffed with Stuffing is a fantastic twist on a comforting classic. This easy weeknight dinner features tender, boneless skinless chicken breasts filled with a savory stuffing mixture, including fresh herbs, celery, and sweet cranberries. Baked to golden brown perfection, this juicy chicken recipe is both delicious and impressive enough for special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for the whole family or a special gathering, this complete meal is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy this great recipe that’s perfect for satisfying your holiday cravings or any night of the week!
I’m excited to share my Chicken Breast Stuffed with Stuffing with you—it’s a personal favorite that never fails to impress. This recipe transforms simple boneless skinless chicken breasts into a delightful dish that’s both comforting and special. The stuffing mixture, with its blend of fresh herbs, celery, and sweet cranberries, adds a wonderful flavor and texture. Baked to golden brown perfection, these stuffed chicken breasts are juicy and delicious, making them ideal for both everyday dinners and special occasions. I hope you find this delicious recipe as satisfying and enjoyable as I do, whether you're feeding the whole family or just looking for a comforting meal. Enjoy!
Looking for more easy stuffing recipes? Try my Chorizo Cornbread Stuffing, Onion and Sage Stuffing and Sourdough Stuffing.
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🌟 Why You'll Love this Recipe
- Flavorful and Versatile! The combination of savory stuffing, fresh herbs, celery, and sweet cranberries creates a deliciously unique flavor profile that pairs perfectly with juicy chicken breasts. Plus, this dish is versatile enough to impress both on a weeknight and at special gatherings!
- Quick and Convenient! With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, this delicious recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal on the table in less than an hour, making it a great option for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
🥘 Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless chicken breast are the main protein in this dish, providing a tender and juicy base for the savory stuffing mixture. These tender chicken breasts are easy to cook and are perfect for stuffing with the flavorful mixture, creating a satisfying and hearty meal.
- Stuffing Mix – The stuffing mix is the star of the stuffing mixture, providing a savory, seasoned base that absorbs the chicken stock and melds with the other ingredients. It’s easy to use and adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the stuffed chicken breasts. A fan favorite is the Stove Top Stuffing Mix. You can also use leftover stuffing!
- Chicken Broth – Chicken broth enhances the stuffing mixture with its rich, savory flavor, adding depth to the overall dish. It helps to moisten the stuffing mix and ensure it is flavorful and well-seasoned. Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Milk – Milk adds creaminess to the stuffing mixture, making it richer and more moist. It helps to balance the flavors and provides a smooth texture to the stuffing.
- Butter – Butter enriches the stuffing mixture, adding a layer of creamy flavor. It helps to sauté the onions and celery, bringing out their sweetness and making the stuffing mixture more indulgent. You can also opt to saute the onions and celery in olive oil.
- Diced White Onion or Yellow Onion – Diced onions contribute a subtle sweetness and savory depth to the stuffing mixture. Sautéing the onions before adding them to the mixture enhances their flavor and aroma, making the stuffing even more delicious.
- Diced Celery – Diced celery adds a fresh, crisp texture and a hint of earthiness to the stuffing mixture. It complements the onions and cranberries, creating a well-balanced flavor profile.
- Dried Cranberries – Dried cranberries introduce a touch of sweetness and a chewy texture to the stuffing mixture. They add a delightful contrast to the savory elements and enhance the overall flavor.
- Salt – Salt is essential for seasoning the stuffing mixture and the chicken breasts. It enhances the flavors of the ingredients and ensures that the dish is well-seasoned.
- Pepper – Black pepper adds a bit of heat and a subtle kick to the chicken breasts and stuffing mixture. It complements the other spices and contributes to the overall flavor.
- Onion Powder – Onion powder adds a concentrated onion flavor to the seasoning mix, enhancing the savory profile of the stuffed breast. It’s a convenient way to add extra depth to the dish.
- Gravy – Homemade or store-bought gravy can be served with the stuffed chicken breasts, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor. It pairs perfectly with the stuffing mixture and adds a comforting touch to the meal.
See Chicken Breast Stuffed with Stuffing recipe card for quantities.
🔪 Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 baking dish with oil or non-stick cooking spray.
Sauté Vegetables: In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat or medium-high heat. Add ½ cup of diced white or yellow onion and ½ cup of diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Stuffing Mixture: Heat 1½ cups of chicken broth in the microwave for 2 minutes or bring to a low boil on the stovetop. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 6 oz stuffing mix, heated chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of butter, and ½ cup of milk. Stir in the sautéed onions and celery, and ½ cup of dried cranberries. Mix until well combined and set aside.
Butterfly the Chicken: Trim any fat from 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts. Carefully slice each breast ¾ of the way through the thickest part, making sure not to cut all the way through.
Stuff the Chicken: Divide the stuffing mixture into 4 equal portions. Stuff each chicken breast with ¼ of the stuffing mixture and place them into the greased baking dish.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of onion powder. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the stuffed chicken breasts.
Bake the Chicken: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Serve: Remove the Chicken Breast Stuffed with Stuffing recipe from the oven and serve immediately with homemade gravy, if desired.
👩🏼🍳 Chef's Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients – The quality of your chicken breasts and stuffing mix can significantly impact the final dish. Opt for fresh, boneless skinless chicken breasts for a juicier texture, and use a high-quality stuffing mix to ensure the stuffing is flavorful and satisfying.
- Butterfly Carefully – When butterflying the chicken breasts, be gentle and precise to avoid cutting all the way through. This will help the chicken hold the stuffing better and ensure even cooking.
- Keep Stuffing Moist – Make sure the stuffing mixture is well combined and slightly moist. If it seems dry, add a little more chicken broth or milk to achieve the right consistency. This will help keep the stuffing from being too dry after baking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – To ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach at least 165°F. This prevents overcooking and ensures the chicken remains juicy.
- Let the Chicken Rest – After baking, let the stuffed chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.
- Customize the Stuffing – Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to the stuffing mix, such as sautéed mushrooms or a handful of nuts. This can add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
- Use Aluminum Foil Properly – Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist during the initial baking period. Removing the foil for the last 15 minutes allows the chicken to brown and become slightly crispy on top.
📖 Substitutions & Variations
Different Stuffing Mix – If you want to change things up, you can use a different stuffing mix flavor, such as herb or savory sausage stuffing. Herb stuffing mix adds a classic, herbaceous touch, while savory sausage stuffing brings a rich, meaty flavor. Just adjust the seasoning if needed, as different mixes can vary in saltiness and spices.
Alternative Add-Ins – You can customize the stuffing mixture by adding other ingredients like diced mushrooms, chopped nuts, or grated cheese. Mushrooms add an earthy flavor, nuts provide a delightful crunch, and cheese melts into the stuffing, making it extra creamy and flavorful.
Reduce Sweetness – If you prefer less sweetness, reduce or omit the dried cranberries. You can substitute them with chopped apples for a subtle sweetness or leave them out entirely if you want a more savory stuffing.
Different Chicken Cuts – For a variation, you could use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and juicier texture, though they might need a slightly different cooking time. Adjust accordingly to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Add Fresh Herbs – Boost the flavor by incorporating fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the stuffing mixture. Fresh herbs add a vibrant, aromatic quality that complements the stuffing and chicken perfectly.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Serve with a Fresh Salad – Pair the stuffed chicken breasts with a crisp, green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad complements the Chicken Breast Stuffed with Stuffing recipe.
Wine Pairing – A light, fruity white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well with this dish, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and stuffing. For a red wine option, a light Pinot Noir can also be a good choice.
Add Roasted Vegetables – Serve the stuffed chicken with a side of roasted vegetables like green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. The caramelized flavors of the roasted veggies provide a nice contrast to the stuffed chicken and add more color and nutrition to the meal. Try my roasted baby broccoli.
Garlic Bread – A slice of garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra stuffing or gravy. It adds a delicious, crispy element that pairs well with the stuffed chicken breasts.
Cranberry Sauce – For a festive touch, especially during holiday seasons, serve with a dollop of cranberry sauce. The tartness of the cranberries adds a delightful contrast to the savory stuffing and juicy chicken.
💭 Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can definitely use a different type of stuffing mix if you prefer. While this easy recipe calls for a classic stuffing mix, you might choose a flavored stuffing mix like herb or cornbread for a different taste. Just be sure to adjust the liquid amounts if the new mix has different requirements. The key is to ensure the stuffing is moist and well-seasoned to complement the chicken.
Yes, you can prepare this Chicken Breast Stuffed with Stuffing recipe ahead of time and freeze them for later use. To do this, assemble the dish as directed but do not bake. Instead, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as instructed, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This makes for a convenient meal option when you need something quick and satisfying.
🥣 Storage & Reheating
Storage: Keep leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled before sealing the container to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
Freezing: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze them unbaked. If freezing after baking, let them cool completely first.
Thawing: To use frozen chicken breasts, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring they are heated through evenly.
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🥗 Pairing Recommendations
Did you make this recipe? Please leave a 5-star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating & comment below to let me know how it came out. Thanks for visiting!
📋 Recipe
Easy Chicken Breasts Stuffed with Stuffing Recipe
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Equipment
- Oven
- 9x13 baking dish
- Microwave or stovetop
- Small saucepan (if using stovetop)
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife (for butterflying chicken)
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum Foil
- Spoon or spatula (for mixing stuffing)
Ingredients
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 6 oz stuffing mix 1 box
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup diced white or yellow onion
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- Gravy for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13 baking dish with oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Sauté vegetables: In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add ½ cup diced onion and ½ cup diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare stuffing mix: Heat 1½ cups chicken broth in the microwave for 2 minutes or bring to a low boil on the stovetop. In a large bowl, combine the 6 oz stuffing mix, heated broth, 1 tablespoon remaining butter, and ½ cup milk. Stir in the sautéed onions and celery, and ½ cup dried cranberries. Mix until well combined and set aside.
- Butterfly the chicken: Trim any fat from the 4 chicken breasts. Carefully slice each breast ¾ of the way through the thickest part, being sure not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff chicken: Divide the stuffing mixture into 4 equal portions. Stuff each chicken breast with ¼ of the stuffing mixture and place the stuffed breasts into the greased baking dish.
- Season chicken: In a small bowl, mix ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ¼ teaspoon onion powder. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with gravy, if desired.
🌡️ Food safety
- Chicken - Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov
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