Ingredients
Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts after searing.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Butterfly Chicken Breasts: Lay the chicken breasts on a plate or cutting board. Carefully slice each breast horizontally from one side to create a pocket (butterfly cut) without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff Chicken: Open each butterflied chicken breast and spread half of the cream cheese filling evenly on one side. Fold the chicken breast closed to enclose the filling.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of each stuffed chicken breast evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika to enhance flavor.
- Heat Oil and Sear: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully add the stuffed chicken breasts to the pan and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until both sides are golden brown.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
Notes
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken in a regular pan and transfer them to a baking dish before placing in the oven.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with 1 teaspoon each of dried herbs if necessary, but fresh is recommended for optimal flavor.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking to retain juices before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb