Oven-baked chicken breast stuffed with cheese

Oven-baked chicken breast stuffed with cheese - A healthy and filling delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of healthy cooking! Today, I will present you with a simple and quick recipe for oven-baked chicken breast stuffed with cheese, perfect for a hearty and flavorful dinner. This recipe is not only diet-friendly but also offers an exquisite taste, thanks to the combination of juicy meat and melted cheese. Let's discover together how to create this special dish step by step!

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g chicken breast (one large piece or two smaller ones)
- 100 g cheese (sliced thinly)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Sweet paprika (optional, for an extra flavor)
- Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
- Water (approximately 100 ml)

Ingredient details:

Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, making it ideal for a healthy diet. The cheese not only adds a delicious flavor but also provides calcium and healthy fats, contributing to a balanced nutrient intake. Make sure to use quality cheese to achieve even melting and rich taste.

Useful tips:

- If you want a healthier option, you can replace the cheese with cottage cheese or feta cheese, which are lower in fat.
- Add some herbs, such as oregano or basil, to the cheese filling to enhance the flavors.
- Ensure that the chicken breast is fresh and without any discoloration or changes in texture.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken breast: Wash the chicken breast well under cold running water and dry it with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving a juicy dish.

2. Slicing and pounding the pieces: Cut the chicken breast into thin slices, similar to those for schnitzels. Try not to make them too thin, so they don’t dry out during baking. Using a meat mallet or a similar tool, gently pound the slices to make them tender.

3. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and sweet paprika on each side of the chicken slices. These spices will enhance the flavor and provide a pleasant aroma to the meat.

4. Filling: Place a slice of cheese on each chicken slice, ensuring that you cover enough area to achieve a rich taste.

5. Rolling: Roll each chicken slice with the filling, making sure the cheese stays inside. Use two toothpicks per roll to secure the edges and prevent them from opening during baking.

6. Preparing the baking dish: In a baking dish, add a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken rolls in the dish, leaving some space between them for even baking.

7. Adding water: Pour approximately 100 ml of water into the dish to keep the meat moist during baking. This will also help create a delicious sauce.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish with chicken rolls inside. Let them bake for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken breast is well-cooked and the cheese has melted beautifully.

9. Serving: Once the rolls are ready, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step is important to allow the juices to redistribute and achieve a more succulent dish.

Serving suggestions:

Stuffed chicken breast goes perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad, a side of rice, or mashed potatoes. If you want an extra flavor, add a garlic yogurt sauce or an emulsion of olive oil and lemon.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for turkey meat or even fish, such as salmon fillet.

- How long can I keep the rolls in the fridge? They keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavor intensifies the next day.

- Can they be frozen? Yes, after cooking, you can freeze the rolls, and when needed, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

- What drinks pair well with this dish? I recommend a glass of dry white wine or freshly made lemonade, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe for stuffed chicken breast is rich in protein, and the cheese provides a considerable amount of calcium. It is a balanced meal suitable for lunch or dinner and can be included in various diets due to its low carbohydrate content.

Possible variations:

If you want to experiment, you can add vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling, or even sautéed mushrooms to diversify the flavors. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, to achieve interesting results.

Now that you have discovered the recipe for stuffed chicken breast with cheese, do not hesitate to try it in your own kitchen! It is an excellent choice for family meals or special occasions. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with your loved ones!