Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as delicious as it is impressive? Introducing the Apple Cheddar Stuffed Chicken with Apple Dijon Pan Sauce—a mouthwatering recipe that combines savory chicken, sharp cheddar, and sweet apples, all drizzled with a tangy sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you'll create a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this flavorful adventure and discover how to make this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 apple, diced
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a horizontal pocket in each chicken breast by cutting a slit along the thickest side, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Mix shredded cheddar cheese and diced apple in a small bowl. Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the cheese-apple mixture, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
- Secure the chicken breast openings with toothpicks to prevent the filling from falling out during cooking.
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet with chicken to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the pan sauce by deglazing the skillet with chicken broth and Dijon mustard, whisking to incorporate any browned bits from the pan.
- Remove chicken from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving.
- Drizzle the Apple Dijon pan sauce over the chicken and serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. If they're uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to ensure even cooking.
- Get Creative with the Filling: While the classic combination of cheddar and apple is delicious, feel free to experiment! Try adding some chopped walnuts for crunch or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm spice twist.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! This not only adds a beautiful golden crust to the chicken but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish by caramelizing the sugars in the chicken and the filling.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will help you avoid dry chicken and keep it juicy.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 140mg
