Name: Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 large boneless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup Tony Chachere’s 30-Minute Chicken Marinade; 8 oz cream cheese; 12 oz chopped spinach; 6 oz sun-dried tomatoes; 1 cup Mozzarella or Queso cheese; 2 tsp Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning; 1 tbsp butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp oil from sun-dried tomatoes; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan; 1 tsp Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning

Introduction to Grilled Stuffed Chicken

If you’re a young professional looking for a quick and impressive dinner option, grilled stuffed chicken should be at the top of your culinary list. In just under an hour, you can transform simple chicken breasts into a flavorful and delightful dish that wows friends, family, or even yourself after a long day at work.

Imagine biting into a perfectly grilled chicken breast, juicy and tender, filled with a savory mix of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella. Not only does this recipe make for an eye-catching meal, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a step up from takeout.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to find meals that are both satisfying and easy to prepare. This grilled stuffed chicken can easily fit into a workweek dinner rotation while still impressing guests on the weekends. Plus, grilling adds that rich, smoky flavor that elevates any dish—perfect for summertime gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Ready to fire up the grill? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that elevates traditional chicken to new heights! Before we start cooking, make sure to check out some helpful tips on meal prepping and ingredient substitutions to make this dish your own.

Ingredients for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Creating a delicious grilled stuffed chicken dish starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get your culinary adventure underway.

Chicken Ingredients

To serve 2-4 people, you’ll need:

4 large boneless chicken breasts
½ cup of Tony Chachere’s 30-Minute Chicken Marinade
This marinade infuses the chicken with fantastic flavor, making every bite tender and juicy. You can grab it here.

Stuffing Ingredients

The stuffing is where the magic happens! Gather:

8 oz cream cheese (softened for easy mixing)
12 oz chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed)
6 oz sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
1 cup of either Mozzarella or Queso cheese
2 teaspoon Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning
This will add depth and a little kick to the stuffing.

Cream Sauce Ingredients

Finally, you’ll need a rich cream sauce to tie it all together:

1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoon oil from the sun-dried tomatoes
This adds flavor that complements the stuffing beautifully.
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 teaspoon Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning

These ingredients combined will deliver an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for summer grilling!

Preparing Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Preparing grilled stuffed chicken is an exciting way to bring a burst of flavor into your kitchen. With a blend of savory stuffing and the creamy richness of a sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family or guests. Let’s walk through the steps to create this delightful meal together!

Prepare the chicken

Begin by prepping your chicken breasts. Take 4 large boneless chicken breasts and slice them in half horizontally, much like butterflying them. This will allow the chicken to open up like a pocket for the delicious stuffing later on. It also ensures that they cook evenly and get to that perfect juicy texture. Don’t forget to season the chicken generously with your favorite spices.

Marinate for flavor

Once the chicken is prepped, it’s time to let it soak in some flavor. Use Tony Chachere’s 30-Minute Chicken Marinade for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as marinating enhances the chicken's moisture and infuses it with rich flavors. If you’re looking to explore more marinades, there are plenty of recipes available online, such as a simple lemon herb marinade that would work wonderfully too!

Mix the stuffing

While the chicken marinates, let’s get that stuffing ready! In a bowl, combine 8 ounces of cream cheese (softened), 12 ounces of chopped spinach, 6 ounces of sun-dried tomatoes, and 1 cup of mozzarella or queso cheese. Add in 2 teaspoons of Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning for a flavor kick! Blend all these ingredients together until they’re well combined. The mixture should be creamy and flavorful, suitable for generously filling your chicken pockets.

Stuff the chicken

With your stuffing mixed, it's time to get your hands a little messy. Evenly distribute the stuffing inside each chicken breast. Be careful not to overstuff them—just enough to fill without spilling out! Once filled, seal the edges with toothpicks to keep everything intact.

Grill to perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then place your stuffed chicken on the grill. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re looking for that perfect grill mark and ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This part of the process is immensely satisfying as you can hear that desirable sizzle.

Make the cream sauce

While the chicken is grilling, let’s whip up a quick cream sauce. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add 1 cup of heavy cream along with 2 teaspoons of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan and 1 teaspoon of Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This sauce will bring everything together beautifully!

Now, you’re ready to plate your grilled stuffed chicken with a generous drizzle of cream sauce on top. Enjoy!

Variations on Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken

Looking for a taste of the Mediterranean? Try stuffing your grilled chicken with a mixture of feta cheese, kalamata olives, and roasted red peppers. The tangy flavors pair perfectly with the creamy sauce, creating a dish that's as flavorful as it is colorful.

BBQ Stuffed Chicken

If you’re craving something with a little kick, why not opt for BBQ stuffed chicken? Fill your grilled chicken breasts with shredded chicken, a dash of BBQ sauce, and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese for a smoky flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. Serve it with a side of coleslaw for that perfect summer vibe!

Experimenting with these variations of grilled stuffed chicken makes it easy to elevate your meals while keeping things fresh and exciting. Plus, it's a great way to customize your dinner for everyone at the table!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Grilling stuffed chicken can be a game changer in your weeknight meals. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your cooking experience:

Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for large, even-sized chicken breasts for uniform cooking. This helps them grill evenly and keeps the filling intact.
Incorporate Flavor: While marinating, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor depth.
Secure the Stuffing: Use toothpicks generously to seal the chicken around the stuffing. This prevents any delicious filling from escaping during grilling.
Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer. Your chicken is perfectly done at 165°F. This ensures it’s juicy, tasty, and safe to eat.

For extra tips, this grilling resource can provide more insights on perfecting your chicken grilling technique!

Serving suggestions for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Complementary sides

When enjoying your grilled stuffed chicken, consider pairing it with fresh, vibrant sides that balance the dish's creamy richness. A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, drizzled with olive oil and lemon, add a delightful crunch and nutritional boost. For a heartier option, garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa pilaf can elevate your meal.

Perfect pairings

To enhance the flavors of your grilled stuffed chicken, serve it alongside a fruity iced tea or sparkling water infused with citrus for a refreshing kick. If you’re looking for something more indulgent, a creamy garlic bread dip can be a fun addition. The balance of flavors will wow your guests, making your meal memorable. Check out this guide for more side dish inspiration!

Time Breakdown for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Preparation Time

The prep time for the grilled stuffed chicken is approximately 35 minutes. This includes marinating the chicken and preparing your delicious stuffing.

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, you'll need about 15 minutes of cooking time on the grill. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Total Time

In total, you're looking at around 50 minutes to complete this mouth-watering dish. It’s an efficient way to enjoy a wholesome meal that the whole family will love!

For more tips on timing and ensuring your chicken is perfectly grilled, check out Grilling Basics.

Nutritional Facts for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

When diving into the delectable world of grilled stuffed chicken, understanding its nutritional profile can enhance your culinary experience. Here’s a quick look at what you’re serving up:

Calories

On average, one serving of this mouthwatering grilled stuffed chicken contains about 400-500 calories, depending largely on the amounts of cheese and cream sauce used.

Protein

This dish is a protein powerhouse! With each serving offering approximately 45 grams of protein, it's a great option for muscle recovery and satiety after a long day.

Sodium

Keep an eye on the sodium content; a single serving delivers around 800-1000 mg. Adjust your seasoning to suit your dietary needs, especially if you're watching your salt intake.

Enjoying this delightful dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also fuels your body! For more insights on nutritional values, consider checking out reputable resources such as USDA FoodData Central or NutritionData.

FAQs about Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Can I use different cheeses in the stuffing?

Absolutely! While this grilled stuffed chicken recipe calls for mozzarella or queso cheese, feel free to experiment with other varieties like feta, goat cheese, or even sharp cheddar for a tangy twist. Each cheese will add its unique flavor, enriching your stuffing.

What can I substitute for the sun-dried tomatoes?

If you're not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes or can’t find them, try diced roasted red peppers or chopped olives instead. Both options will still provide a delicious burst of flavor. You could also consider using fresh tomatoes; just remember to reduce moisture in the stuffing.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure your grilled stuffed chicken is ready to eat is to use a meat thermometer. Look for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have one, check that the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Grilled Stuffed Chicken

In summary, the grilled stuffed chicken with cream sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines flavors and textures in the most delightful way. It's perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or whenever you're craving something special. Enjoy experimenting with the fillings and impress your family and friends!

For more creative chicken recipes and tips, check out Food52.

Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce

This Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce is filled with delicious flavors and is a family favorite, perfect for summer.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 35

Cook Time 15

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings people

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

grill
saucepan
mixing bowl
Toothpicks