Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

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The Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a classic dish that effortlessly combines simplicity with indulgence, transforming an everyday chicken breast into a sumptuous, flavorful centerpiece perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. This recipe strikes a delightful balance between tender, juicy chicken and the savory richness of melted cheese and savory ham tucked inside, offering a comforting yet elegant meal that appeals to all ages.

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Stuffed chicken breasts are a fantastic way to elevate a simple protein, turning it into something memorable and satisfying. The combination of ham and cheese is a time-honored pairing, delivering salty, smoky, and creamy notes that complement the mild flavor of chicken beautifully. Whether you choose Swiss, cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère cheese, the melted filling creates a luscious contrast to the lean meat surrounding it, making each bite an experience of both texture and taste.

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What makes this dish particularly appealing is its versatility and accessibility. You don’t need complex ingredients or techniques to achieve a meal that feels restaurant-worthy. With a few simple steps—carefully preparing the chicken, assembling the filling, and baking to perfection—you can enjoy a dish that’s both impressive and nourishing. It’s a recipe that adapts easily to what you have on hand; swap ham for turkey or prosciutto, experiment with different cheeses or add herbs and spices to suit your palate.

From a nutritional standpoint, stuffed chicken breasts offer a satisfying source of protein with controlled fat content, especially when you use lean cuts and moderate the cheese quantity. The dish pairs well with a wide array of sides—from fresh, vibrant salads to creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables—making it easy to tailor the meal to fit a balanced diet or a hearty comfort food craving.

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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

Perfecting ham and cheese stuffed chicken breasts requires attention to preparation, assembly, and cooking techniques to ensure juicy chicken and a flavorful, melty filling. Follow these detailed steps for best results.

Step 1: Select and Prepare the Chicken Breasts

• Choose chicken breasts that are evenly sized and thick enough (about ¾ to 1 inch thick) to create a pocket without tearing.

• Trim any excess fat or connective tissue from the chicken.

• Pat dry with paper towels to help seasoning stick.

Tip: If your chicken breasts are very thick, you can slice them horizontally to create two thinner cutlets for easier stuffing.

Step 2: Create the Pocket for Stuffing

• Place a chicken breast on a cutting board.

• Using a sharp knife, slice horizontally through the thickest side of the breast, starting from one edge and carefully cutting almost through to the other side, creating a pocket or flap.

• Be careful not to cut all the way through; the pocket should stay intact to hold the filling.

• Repeat with all chicken breasts.

Pro Tip: For easier slicing, slightly freeze chicken breasts for 15–20 minutes before cutting. This firms the meat and reduces slipping.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

• Choose your fillings: thinly sliced ham and cheese are classic.

• Slice ham and cheese to fit comfortably inside the pocket.

• You may also add optional extras like fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

• Season the inside of each chicken pocket lightly with salt and pepper.

• Place slices of ham inside the pocket.

• Add slices or shredded cheese over the ham.

• If using, add any additional fillings.

• Close the pocket carefully; if needed, use toothpicks to secure the opening.

Tip: Don’t overfill—leave some space so you can close the pocket without tearing the chicken.

Step 5: Season the Outside of the Chicken

• Brush the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter.

• Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika or your preferred spices.

• For extra flavor, sprinkle some lemon zest or fresh herbs on top.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper or foil.

• Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts seam side down to help keep the filling inside.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• If the tops brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

• Optionally, for a golden crust, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

• Remove the chicken from the oven.

• Let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

• Remove toothpicks before serving.

• Slice the chicken breasts to reveal the melty ham and cheese filling.

• Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh herbs if desired.

Additional Tips for Success

• Avoid overcooking: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

• Secure the pocket: Toothpicks or kitchen twine help keep fillings inside during baking.

• Customize fillings: Experiment with different cheeses (Swiss, mozzarella, gouda) and cured meats.

• Add a sauce: Creamy mustard sauce or a light garlic butter drizzle complements the dish well.

Prep Time
15 minutes

Cook Time
30 minutes

Total Time
45 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices deli ham
• 4 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar, provolone, mozzarella)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Toothpicks (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare chicken:
   Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast (don’t cut all the way through).
3. Stuff chicken:
   Stuff each pocket with one slice of ham and one slice of cheese. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Season:
   Rub the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil. Then sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken.
5. Sear chicken (optional):
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
6. Bake:
   Transfer chicken to a baking dish (or use an oven-safe skillet) and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
7. Serve:
   Remove toothpicks before serving. Pair with your favorite sides.

Notes

• Cheese alternatives: Try Swiss, mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.
• Add veggies: Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms inside the pocket for more nutrition.
• Make ahead: Prepare stuffed chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate before cooking.

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