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When it comes to preparing a dish that balances comfort and elegance, few recipes can rival the appeal of Creamy Tomato Basil Stuffed Chicken. This delectable meal combines tender chicken breasts with a rich filling of cream cheese, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil, creating a culinary experience that feels gourmet yet approachable. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an intimate date night, this stuffed chicken dish promises to impress both in flavor and presentation.

Creamy Tomato Basil Stuffed Chicken

Indulge in the deliciousness of Creamy Tomato Basil Stuffed Chicken, a recipe that merges comfort with elegance. This dish features juicy chicken breasts filled with a rich mixture of cream cheese, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil, delivering a gourmet experience that is both satisfying and simple to prepare. Ideal for a family meal or a romantic dinner, this dish bursts with flavor and pairs beautifully with sides like sautéed spinach or garlic mashed potatoes. Elevate your dining experience with this flavorful delight!

Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for seasoning the chicken)

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more for seasoning the chicken)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a drizzle)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

    Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced fresh mozzarella, chopped basil leaves, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are well blended and cream cheese is creamy and smooth.

      Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Take each chicken breast and using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side. Ensure you cut deep enough for ample stuffing but avoid slicing through the other side. Season both the outside and the inside of the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper.

        Stuff the Chicken: Generously fill each pocket of the chicken breasts with the creamy tomato basil filling. Use a spoon to pack the mixture inside and ensure it's evenly distributed. Press down gently to secure the filling.

          Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds flavor and texture; the chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through at this point.

            Bake the Chicken: Transfer the seared chicken to your prepped baking dish. If desired, drizzle balsamic vinegar over the chicken for an extra depth of flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

              Garnish and Serve: After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch. Serve warm, complemented by a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables or a crisp arugula salad for a refreshing contrast.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 4 servings

                  Feel free to enjoy this dish while sipping on a refreshing beverage of choice to enhance your dining experience!