Cheesy Garlic Bread Stuffed Chicken

A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food

Cheesy garlic bread stuffed chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines the crispy, buttery flavors of garlic bread with juicy, tender chicken breasts. This recipe takes a classic comfort food favorite and elevates it by stuffing chicken with a creamy, cheesy garlic filling. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers a crispy golden crust, gooey melted cheese, and bold garlic flavors in every bite.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The rich garlic butter and gooey cheese create an explosion of taste.
• Juicy & Tender Chicken: Baking keeps the chicken moist and succulent.
• Crispy Golden Crust: A breadcrumb coating adds a delightful crunch.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to all.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for both casual weeknights and special gatherings.

---

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Cheesy Garlic Filling:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Crispy Coating:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 eggs, beaten

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix the mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, minced garlic, melted butter, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well combined and set aside.

2. Prep the Chicken

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

3. Stuff the Chicken

Evenly distribute the cheesy garlic mixture into each chicken pocket. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if needed.

4. Coat the Chicken

Set up a breading station with two shallow bowls: one with beaten eggs and the other with panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

5. Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.

---

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Bacon Lover’s Version: Mix crispy bacon bits into the cheese filling.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or oregano for an extra aromatic flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumbs and coat the chicken in almond flour.

---

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

---

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

---

FAQs

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Use toothpicks to secure the openings, and avoid overstuffing the chicken.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the stuffed chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, garlic green beans, or a fresh Caesar salad are great options.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Try provolone, gouda, or Swiss for a unique flavor.

Is it possible to cook this in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20-22 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach 165°F.

How can I make it even crispier?

Use a mix of panko and crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.

What’s the best way to butterfly the chicken?

Lay the chicken flat and carefully slice horizontally, stopping before cutting all the way through.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes fresher.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the safe internal temperature.

---

Conclusion

Cheesy garlic bread stuffed chicken is the ultimate fusion of crispy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness. With its juicy chicken, bold flavors, and crunchy coating, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a winner. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence!

O

Print