How to Make the Perfect Avocado Stuffed Chicken Breast
American · Medium · 40 min · 4 servings
This impressive avocado stuffed chicken breast features juicy tender chicken filled with creamy avocado and melted cheese for a show-stopping dinner. It is elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Why this recipe works
This Avocado Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 40 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 460 calories with 42g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 whole large chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 2 whole ripe avocados mashed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Chicken
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius or 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket into the thickest side of the breast without cutting all the way through.
Step 2: Make the Filling and Stuff
Mash the avocados with garlic powder and a generous pinch of salt. Mix in the shredded mozzarella. Carefully spoon the avocado cheese mixture into each chicken pocket and press closed. Secure with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside.
Step 3: Season and Sear
Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil then season all over with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat an oven-safe skillet over high heat and sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 4: Bake to Finish
Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74 degrees Celsius or 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks and slicing.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- mozzarella cheese → pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick inside the chicken
- smoked paprika → Italian seasoning for a more herbaceous flavor on the outside of the chicken
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Cutting the pocket too deep and breaking through the other side causing the filling to leak out during cooking
- Not using a meat thermometer and cutting into the chicken too early which releases all the juices
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 460 calories, 42g protein, 5g carbs, 28g fat, 4g fiber.
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