This Bacon and Pesto Stuffed Chicken is a delicious twist on traditional stuffed chicken breast recipes. Juicy boneless chicken breasts are filled with crispy bacon, fresh basil pesto, and melty mozzarella, creating a flavor-packed dish that is sure to impress.
The recipe involves carefully slitting the chicken breasts to fill them with a generous spoonful of pesto, strips of cooked bacon, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Wrapped in more bacon for added richness, this dish is seared for a golden finish and baked until tender and crisp.
Flavorful Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breast
The Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon, fresh basil pesto, and gooey mozzarella. This recipe transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress your guests.
Preparation is straightforward, taking about 20 minutes, followed by a cooking time of 30 minutes. This dish serves four, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of ingredients creates a satisfying experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients That Shine
To create this Pesto Stuffed Chicken, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which serve as the perfect canvas for the stuffing. Fresh basil pesto adds a burst of flavor, while crispy bacon and shredded mozzarella contribute to the richness of the dish.
With just a handful of ingredients, including salt, pepper, and olive oil, you can easily prepare this Chicken Bacon Pesto dish. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, making it a favorite among stuffed chicken recipes.
Preparation Steps
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the delicious filling of pesto, bacon, and mozzarella.
Season the inside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before generously spooning in the pesto, followed by the chopped bacon and shredded mozzarella. For added richness, wrap each stuffed chicken breast with slices of bacon, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
Cooking to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the wrapped chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden brown color. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps to lock in moisture.
Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The goal is to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy, creating a delightful texture contrast.
Serving Suggestions
After baking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period helps retain the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Serve the Bacon Stuffed Chicken Breast garnished with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of color and flavor.
Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables for a vibrant presentation. The colorful medley of veggies complements the rich flavors of the pesto and bacon, making for a visually appealing and delicious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Pesto And Mozzarella Chicken is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a flavor-packed dish that brings together the best of savory and cheesy goodness. The crispy bacon wrapping adds a satisfying crunch, while the melted mozzarella oozes from the sides, creating a delightful experience with every bite.
Whether you’re looking for a standout dish for a special occasion or a comforting meal for a weeknight dinner, this Bacon and Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures that make this dish a true culinary delight.
Flavorful Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breast
This Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breast features tender chicken filled with a savory mixture of pesto, bacon, and mozzarella. The preparation time is about 20 minutes, followed by a cooking time of 30 minutes, making it a satisfying dinner option that serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 additional slices of bacon for wrapping
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
- Fill the Chicken: Season the inside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Spoon in the pesto, followed by the chopped bacon and shredded mozzarella.
- Wrap the Chicken: Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with two slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the wrapped chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g