Name: Stuffed Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces chicken breasts (thin, you can pound it down if they’re a little thicker); 4 ounces cream cheese (softened); 10 ounces spinach (frozen, thawed and drained, chopped); 1.5 cups Mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided); 6 tablespoons parmesan cheese (grated, divided); 1 piece egg (beaten); 10 pieces RITZ Crackers (crushed); 1 cup pasta sauce (your favorite, warmed up)

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One of my absolute favorite meals is the Stuffed Chicken Parmesan. The moment I take a bite, I’m transported back to childhood dinners at my grandmother’s house, where the aromas of melted cheese and savory sauces filled the air. It’s a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, perfect for those weeknights when you want something special yet easy to prepare. Imagine succulent, juicy chicken breasts filled with creamy cheese and spinach, all coated in crispy crumbs and topped with a rich, flavorful sauce. This isn’t just food; it’s a hug on a plate!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
38 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Hits Different

1. A Flavor Explosion

The Stuffed Chicken Parmesan offers an incredible blend of flavors that marry beautifully. The creamy mixture of cream cheese and spinach creates a rich filling that’s complemented by the slight tang of parmesan. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste, with the melted mozzarella adding that perfect gooeyness that makes the dish so crave-worthy.

2. Textural Harmony

Texture is everything in cooking, and this recipe nails it! The crispy outer layer made from RITZ Crackers creates a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy chicken and creamy filling. It’s like a symphony for your mouth, where every bite brings a different sensation.

3. Quick and Easy

Despite how impressive it looks and tastes, the Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find that this recipe is accessible and doesn’t require hours of slaving over a hot stove. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the hassle.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. The Stuffed Chicken Parmesan brings people together, making it a wonderful choice for celebrations or just a cozy night in. It’s versatile enough to be served on special occasions or as a comforting weeknight meal.

5. Customizable

One of the best things about the Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is its adaptability. You can play around with the filling by adding different herbs or vegetables, making it a unique dish every time you prepare it. This flexibility means you can cater to your family’s tastes or even create a new favorite!

What to Buy for Stuffed Chicken Parmesan

The ingredients for Stuffed Chicken Parmesan come together to create a harmonious dish that’s not only delicious but also satisfying. The combination of chicken, cream cheese, and mozzarella serves as a perfect base, while the addition of spinach and parmesan brings a delightful creaminess and depth of flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor and richness.

6 thin chicken breasts (you can pound it down if they’re a little thicker): The star of the dish, providing the protein and structure for the stuffing.
4 ounces cream cheese softened: This creates a rich, creamy filling that binds the flavors together.
10 ounces spinach frozen, thawed and drained, chopped: Adds a nutritious boost and a lovely earthiness to the filling.
1 ½ cups Mozzarella cheese shredded, divided: Gives that delicious melty cheese texture that everyone loves.
6 tablespoons parmesan cheese grated, divided: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste.
1 egg beaten: Acts as a binder for the chicken and helps the crumbs adhere.
10 RITZ Crackers crushed: Creates a delightful crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken.
pasta sauce (your favorite, warmed up): A flavorful topping that brings the entire dish together.

Preparation Steps for Stuffed Chicken Parmesan

Making Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is an enjoyable process that allows you to channel your inner chef. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that impresses everyone around the table. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden color once it’s baked.
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, spinach, 3 tablespoons of parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well until everything is well incorporated and creamy. This filling should have a smooth consistency, making it easy to spread.
Take a shallow dish and place the crushed RITZ Crackers in one and the beaten egg in another. This setup will help you coat the chicken later. Make sure the crumbs are finely crushed for a well-adhered coating.
Take each chicken breast and carefully spread a generous amount of the cheese and spinach mixture onto it. Be careful not to overfill; you want to roll them up tightly without spilling the filling out.
Once filled, roll the chicken breasts tightly, securing the ends with toothpicks. This step is crucial to keep the filling intact while baking.
Next, dip each rolled chicken bundle into the beaten egg, ensuring that it’s evenly coated. This will help the crumbs stick.
Now, roll the chicken in the cracker mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the crumbs adhere well to the surface. This creates a lovely crunchy exterior once baked.
Place the chicken seam side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This positioning helps to keep the filling inside while allowing the outside to become nice and crispy.
Spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray to encourage browning and ensure it doesn’t stick to the dish.
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crumbs are golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Once done, remove the toothpicks before serving, and top each chicken piece with warm pasta sauce and the remaining mozzarella cheese. Allow the cheese to melt slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Stuffed Chicken Parmesan!

Things Worth Knowing

Use a meat mallet: To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness before stuffing.
Don’t overfill: Less is more when it comes to the filling; overfilling can cause it to leak out while cooking.
Let it rest: Allow the stuffed chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the juices redistribute.
Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add different vegetables or herbs to the filling for a unique twist!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Here are some handy tips to elevate your Stuffed Chicken Parmesan experience:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked stuffed chicken. Wrap tightly and store for up to three months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, increasing the cooking time slightly.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Cooking tip: For an extra crispy coating, broil the chicken for the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking.
Make it cheesy: Add more cheese on top for an indulgent twist!

Serve This Stuffed Chicken Parmesan With

Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread makes for a perfect addition, great for sopping up sauce.
Green Salad: A refreshing mixed green salad adds balance to the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables complement the flavors and add nutrition.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a comforting side that pairs beautifully.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy it with a light white wine for a wonderful dining experience.
Perfect for gatherings: This dish is ideal for family gatherings and potlucks; everyone will love it!

FAQ

Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is a delicious dish that features chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of cheese and spinach, then coated in crispy crumbs and baked. This dish combines a variety of textures and flavors, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken ahead of time. You can fill and roll the chicken breasts, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining, as you can simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Pair your Stuffed Chicken Parmesan with a variety of sides such as garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. These accompaniments complement the richness of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. You can also serve it with pasta to create a heartier meal.

Yes, you can freeze unbaked Stuffed Chicken Parmesan. Wrap the chicken tightly and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, bake it from frozen, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. This makes for a quick and delicious meal option on busy nights.

Conclusion

The Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is a remarkable dish that brings together comforting flavors and delightful textures. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed, and it might just become a new favorite in your home!