Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines the creamy goodness of Boursin cheese with tender chicken breast, creating a flavorful and elegant meal. In this article, we’ll explore how to make this delectable recipe step-by-step, ensuring a perfect outcome every time.
1. Introduction to Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast
Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast is a sophisticated yet simple dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight treat. The creamy, herb-infused Boursin cheese complements the juicy chicken breast, while fresh herbs and garlic add an extra layer of flavor. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich taste and elegant presentation.
2. Ingredients Needed
To make Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breast
- Boursin Cheese (Garlic and Fine Herbs flavor recommended)
- Fresh Herbs (such as thyme and parsley)
- Garlic
- Spinach
- Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper
- Lemon (optional, for garnish)
3. Preparing the Ingredients
Prepping the Chicken Breast
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Prepping the Boursin Cheese and Filling
In a bowl, mix the Boursin cheese with finely chopped fresh herbs and minced garlic. If desired, add some chopped spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Season the mixture with a bit of salt and pepper.
Prepping Additional Ingredients
Chop additional fresh herbs and mince more garlic if you plan to use them for garnish or to add more flavor to the dish. You can also prepare lemon slices for garnish.
4. Stuffing the Chicken Breast
Creating a Pocket in the Chicken Breast
Carefully open the pocket you created in the chicken breast and spoon the Boursin cheese mixture inside. Be generous but avoid overstuffing, as this can cause the filling to leak out during cooking.
Filling with Boursin Cheese Mixture
Once the chicken breasts are stuffed, secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during cooking. This step is crucial to ensure the cheese stays inside the chicken breast.
5. Cooking Instructions
Searing the Stuffed Chicken Breast
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds a nice color to the chicken.
Baking in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken breasts to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Ensuring the Chicken is Cooked Through
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken breast. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to get an accurate reading. Once it reaches 165°F (75°C), the chicken is done.
6. Serving Suggestions
Garnishing with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Slices
Remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and lemon slices for a burst of color and flavor.
Pairing with Side Dishes
Serve the Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast with your favorite side dishes. Some excellent options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. The creamy chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile dish.
7. Variations and Customizations
Using Different Types of Cheese
While Boursin cheese is recommended for its creamy texture and herb-infused flavor, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, for a different taste.
Adding Other Ingredients to the Filling
Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Making it Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free
For a gluten-free version, ensure that all ingredients used are gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cheese alternative that has a similar creamy texture to Boursin.
8. Tips for Success
Properly Sealing the Chicken Breast
Ensure the chicken breasts are properly sealed with toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking. You can also use kitchen twine to tie the chicken if preferred.
Avoiding Overstuffing
Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts, as this can cause the filling to spill out. A generous but manageable amount of filling will ensure the best results.
Monitoring Cooking Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to accurately monitor the internal temperature of the chicken breast. This ensures that the chicken is cooked through without being overdone.
9. Health Benefits of Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast
Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Fresh herbs and garlic add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, while spinach provides vitamins and minerals like iron and vitamin K.
10. Conclusion
In conclusion, Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese filling, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Source: saltandlavender.com
Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines the creamy goodness of Boursin cheese with tender chicken breast, creating a flavorful and elegant meal. In this article, we'll explore how to make this delectable recipe step-by-step, ensuring a perfect outcome every time.
- 4 8-9 ounces each boneless skinless chicken breasts see note
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1/2 medium onion chopped finely
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach
- 1 5.2 ounce package Boursin Fine Herbs & Garlic cheese softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional but recommended
- Preheat your oven to 375F and move the rack to the middle position.
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, taking care not to cut through the other side. See the step-by-step photos in the blog post if you're unsure of where to cut.
- Generously season the chicken with salt & pepper.
- Add one tablespoon of the olive oil to a large oven-safe skillet (I use my 12" Le Creuset) over medium heat, and sauté the onion until soft and lightly browned (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add in the spinach and cook for a few minutes until wilted (stir/toss often), then take the skillet off the heat.
- In a medium prep bowl, combine the Boursin, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and spinach mixture from the skillet. Do not wash the skillet yet – you will use it to cook the chicken.
- Using a spoon, stuff the chicken breasts evenly with the filling. I use 2 toothpicks in each chicken breast to close them. Don't worry if you don't do this perfectly. Some of the filling will spill out in the next step and that's ok – it helps makes a tasty pan sauce.
- Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet and heat it up over medium-high heat for a few minutes. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes on the first side, flip using tongs, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake, uncovered, for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Rest for 5 minutes prior to serving. The pan juices are delicious over mashed potatoes or rice. Don't forget to remove the toothpicks prior to serving!