Chicken breast stuffed with cheese and mustard
Preheat the oven to 200°C. This is the ideal temperature to achieve a golden and crispy crust on the chicken while keeping the filling soft and flavorful.
a) Filling preparation:
1. In a large bowl, mix your favorite cheeses, such as cottage cheese, feta, and mozzarella, with a tablespoon of mustard to add a slightly spicy and aromatic flavor. Make sure the ingredients are well combined and you get a smooth paste. If you want to add extra flavor, you can include chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley, and a little salt and pepper to taste. This filling will transform plain chicken into a delicious dish full of character.
b) Chicken breast preparation:
1. Take the chicken breast and with a sharp knife, make a pocket in each piece, being careful not to cut all the way through. This pocket will be filled with the cheese mixture, so make sure it is deep enough to hold all the ingredients. After you have prepared all the chicken pieces, fill each pocket with the cheese mixture using a teaspoon or even your hands if you prefer. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed.
2. After you have filled the chicken, season the outside with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a drizzle of olive oil to help form a nice crust during baking. Place the chicken pieces in a baking dish, making sure to leave a little space between them to allow heat to circulate.
3. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes or until it becomes golden and well-cooked. Check if it is fully cooked using a meat thermometer - the internal temperature should reach 75°C.
4. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy.
Serve the stuffed chicken breast alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a delicious and healthy lunch or dinner. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 125 g mozzarella balls, cut into small pieces; 50 g cheese (strong cheddar), grated; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 4 pieces of skinless, boneless chicken breast; 8 slices of smoked streaky bacon rashers;