If you’re looking to wow your family or dinner guests with a show-stopping meal, Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese is about to become your new go-to favorite. This isn’t your everyday chicken dinner—each golden-crusted breast is bursting with a creamy, cheesy filling and blanketed in tangy marinara sauce, making every bite downright irresistible. Whether you serve it for a cozy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe brings together the best of Italian-American comfort food with a creamy twist that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from adding a burst of flavor to creating that perfect, gooey center and crisp, golden exterior. Here’s what you’ll need for this unforgettable dish:
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless breasts for easy stuffing and even cooking.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese melts beautifully and adds a luscious richness to the filling.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: This helps create that irresistible stretchy, cheesy texture inside the chicken.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty punch that deepens the flavor of the filling.
- Garlic powder: Gives a subtle garlic kick that infuses every bite with classic Italian flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings out the best in both the chicken and the cheesy filling.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste for balanced flavor and to enhance the other ingredients.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: These coat the chicken, giving it a satisfying crunch and extra seasoning.
- All-purpose flour: Helps the egg wash stick to the chicken, making the breadcrumb coating possible.
- Large eggs: Whisked eggs act as the glue for the breadcrumbs, keeping everything in place.
- Marinara sauce: Pour over the stuffed chicken for a tangy, saucy finish that ties the whole dish together.
- Shredded mozzarella (for topping): Melted on top, this creates that classic, bubbly Chicken Parmesan finish.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Just a sprinkle for a fresh, colorful garnish to brighten each plate.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese
Step 1: Prep the Filling
Start by mixing the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. This mixture will be the heart of your Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese—rich, tangy, and absolutely irresistible!
Step 2: Cut and Stuff the Chicken
Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, aiming for a deep pouch without slicing all the way through. Take your time with this step! Spoon a generous amount of the creamy cheese filling into each pocket, pressing it in gently. If needed, secure the opening with toothpicks so the cheesy goodness stays neatly inside.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with Italian-style breadcrumbs. Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in flour first, then dip into the egg, and finally coat completely with the breadcrumbs. This triple-layer process ensures a beautifully crisp crust once cooked.
Step 4: Sear for Flavor
Heat a skillet with a little oil over medium heat. Carefully add the stuffed, breaded chicken breasts and sear each side for 2–3 minutes until they’re golden brown. This quick sear locks in flavor and gives a head start on that irresistible crispy coating.
Step 5: Bake with Sauce and Cheese
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, then sprinkle with plenty of shredded mozzarella for that classic, melty finish. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F internally.
Step 6: Rest, Garnish, and Serve
Let the Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese rest for about 5 minutes after baking, which helps keep the filling in place. Remove any toothpicks, then finish with a scattering of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley is all you need to bring a burst of color and freshness to your plate. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a dusting of grated Parmesan over the top adds even more depth and a professional touch to your Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty and rich, so it pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or classic garlic bread. For a true Italian-American feast, nestle each chicken breast on a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta to catch every drop of that delicious marinara.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the stuffed chicken into thick rounds and fan them out on a platter, showing off the cheesy filling inside. You can also serve mini versions using chicken tenders for party appetizers. However you plate it, Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese is guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The filling stays creamy and the flavors deepen even more after a day or two.
Freezing
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese freezes beautifully. Simply wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in a covered baking dish and warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, add a splash of extra marinara and a little shredded mozzarella on top before reheating to restore that melty, saucy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts are easier to stuff and slice, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier alternative. You may need to adjust the stuffing amount and cooking time slightly.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed and breaded chicken up to a day in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge, then simply bake when you’re ready. This makes it a fantastic option for entertaining or busy weeknights.
What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?
Get creative! Chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a handful of cooked, crumbled bacon make delicious additions to the cream cheese filling. Just be sure not to overstuff so the chicken stays sealed during cooking.
How do I keep the stuffing from leaking out?
Be careful not to cut all the way through the chicken when making the pocket, and use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed. Chilling the stuffed breasts for 10–15 minutes before breading can also help the filling stay put.
Is Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese gluten-free?
As written, it’s not gluten-free due to the flour and breadcrumbs. However, you can easily substitute your favorite gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets without sacrificing taste or texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dinner that’s equal parts comforting and impressive, Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese will exceed every expectation. The combination of crispy coating, creamy filling, and saucy, cheesy goodness is simply unbeatable. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a staple at your table—you’ll be glad you did!
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Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A savory and cheesy Chicken Parmesan stuffed with a rich blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, coated in Italian-style breadcrumbs and baked to perfection with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella topping. This Italian-American classic makes for a hearty and satisfying main course perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Cheese Filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Coating and Topping
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and evenly combined.
- Stuff the Chicken: Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each pocket, and secure with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in all-purpose flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the Italian-style breadcrumbs to form a crispy crust when cooked.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust, which helps seal in the juices.
- Bake with Sauce and Cheese: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each breast and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top.
- Bake Until Done: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Take out the toothpicks, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can prep the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to save time on the day of serving.
- Try adding chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
