Chicken breast with mozzarella

Chicken breast stuffed with mozzarella and bacon: a simple and delicious recipe

Are you tired of monotonous meals and want to bring a splash of flavor into your kitchen? Then get ready to discover a simple, quick, and extremely tasty recipe: chicken breast stuffed with mozzarella and wrapped in bacon. This combination of flavors will delight your taste buds and transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Before we begin, let’s familiarize ourselves with the ingredients. Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, while mozzarella adds a creamy and rich note. The bacon, with its salty and slightly smoky flavor, perfectly complements this dish. Together with a side of boiled potatoes and broccoli, you will achieve a balanced and filling meal.

Ingredients:

For the chicken breast:

- 4 pieces of chicken breast (approximately 150-200g each)
- 4 slices of mozzarella (preferably fresh for a more intense flavor)
- 4 slices of bacon (opt for a high-quality version)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Dried thyme, to taste

For the side:

- 4 medium potatoes (approximately 200g each)
- 200g broccoli (you can also use frozen)
- 50g butter
- 2-3 green onions (for garnish and flavor)

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. This step is essential to ensure even cooking of the chicken breast. Wash the chicken breast well and dry it with a kitchen towel. With a sharp knife, cut an opening in each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will be the perfect spot to add the mozzarella.

2. Seasoning
Season each piece of chicken breast with salt, pepper, and thyme, both inside and outside. This will help enhance the flavors and make each bite full of taste.

3. Stuffing with mozzarella
Insert a slice of mozzarella into each chicken breast. Make sure the mozzarella is well positioned so that it doesn't leak out during baking. This will add a creamy and delicious texture to the dish.

4. Wrapping in bacon
Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with a slice of bacon, ensuring that the bacon covers the chicken well. This not only adds a savory flavor but also helps keep the juices inside the chicken, making it more tender.

5. Baking
Place the stuffed chicken breast on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes or until the bacon becomes crispy and the chicken is well cooked (you can check with a meat thermometer; the ideal temperature for chicken is 75°C).

6. Preparing the side
While the chicken is in the oven, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Boil them in salted water for 10-15 minutes until tender. In the last 5 minutes, add the broccoli to the pot to cook slightly. Once the potatoes and broccoli are ready, drain them well and add the butter. Gently mix to combine the flavors.

7. Serving
Remove the chicken breast from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it to showcase the melted mozzarella layer. Serve it alongside the boiled potatoes and broccoli, decorating the plate with slices of green onion for a touch of freshness.

Practical tips:

- If you want to add a bit of spice, you can use chili mozzarella or smoked bacon.
- A delicious variation would be to add fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, for an extra flavor boost.
- If you prefer a more sophisticated side, you can try garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can experiment with goat cheese, cheddar, or gouda, each bringing its unique flavors.

2. How can I make the recipe healthier?
Replace the bacon with turkey ham or omit it completely for a lighter version. You can also bake the chicken without oil or butter.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light refreshing blonde beer are excellent options to balance the intense flavors of the dish.

This recipe for chicken breast stuffed with mozzarella and bacon is a perfect example of how you can transform simple ingredients into a memorable meal. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it is sure to impress everyone. Enjoy your meal!