Parmesan chicken peek-a-boos with basil and mustard
Parmesan chicken peek-a-boos with basil and mustard feature juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, enveloped in crispy ham. This dish balances rich textures and flavors for a delightful family meal.
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese1 cup ricotta cheese
1 oz fat free cream cheese
2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp mustard
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
4 chicken breasts
8 slices ham
Parmesan chicken peek-a-boos with basil and mustard are a delightful and savory dish that combines the rich, creamy flavors of cheeses with aromatic herbs and tangy mustard. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a satisfying and gourmet experience without too much fuss. Let's dive into how you can prepare this scrumptious meal at home.
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and fat-free cream cheese. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth.
Add the dried basil, mustard, a dash of salt, and a dash of black pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until the spices and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Lay out the chicken breasts on a clean surface. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to form a pocket. Be careful not to slice all the way through the chicken.
Spoon the cheese filling into each chicken breast pocket, ensuring each pocket is generously filled. You can use a toothpick to secure the opening if needed.
Lay two slices of ham over each stuffed chicken breast, wrapping them neatly around the chicken. This will help to keep the filling inside and add extra flavor.
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the wrapped chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until the ham begins to brown and crisp up, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
Once both sides are seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it tender and juicy.
Serve your Parmesan chicken peek-a-boos with your favorite side dishes like a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Parmesan chicken peek-a-boos with basil and mustard are not only delicious but also elegantly simple to prepare. The combination of cheeses, basil, and mustard creates a symphony of flavors that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken and savory ham. Serve alongside your favorite sides for a complete and impressive meal. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!
Parmesan chicken peek-a-boos with basil and mustard FAQ:
Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The juices should also run clear when the chicken is pierced.
Yes, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or another creamy cheese. If you can't find fat-free cream cheese, use regular cream cheese, but be mindful of the calorie content.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
You can use turkey breasts or pork loin cutlets as a substitute, but cooking times may vary. Ensure the meat is fully cooked to the recommended temperature.
Tips:
- Use a meat thermometer.: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Cheese consistency.: Make sure the ricotta and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This will help achieve a smoother consistency for filling.
- Basil substitution.: If you have fresh basil, feel free to use it instead of dried for a more intense flavor. A general substitution is 1 tablespoon of fresh basil for every teaspoon of dried basil.
- Preheat the oven.: Always preheat your oven to the recommended temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Don't overstuff.: Avoid overstuffing the chicken breasts to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
Nutrition per serving
2 ServingsCalories 600kcal
Protein 80g
Carbohydrates 8g
Fiber 0.38g
Sugar 1.21g
Fat 33g
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