If you are craving something comforting, decadent, and full of flavor, the Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe is your new go-to dinner. This dish brings together tender chicken breasts stuffed with a savory blend of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and ooey-gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bathed in a luscious buttery garlic sauce with just the right hint of Dijon mustard, every bite is an irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty umami richness. It’s a show-stopping recipe that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe really starts with simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a crucial role in layering flavors and textures. From the earthy mushrooms to the creamy cheeses and fragrant herbs, every element is essential.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): The base for sautéing garlic and mushrooms creates a rich, silky foundation for the dish.
- Brown mushrooms, sliced (8 ounces): Their meaty texture and deep flavor add a satisfying earthiness.
- Garlic, minced (6 cloves total): Provides the essential aromatic punch in both the stuffing and the sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (3 tablespoons total): Adds a bright, fresh note to balance the richness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- Skinless, boneless chicken breasts (4): The tender protein that holds the delicious stuffing.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory depth to the chicken seasoning.
- Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Complements the fresh parsley and adds herbal nuances.
- Mozzarella cheese slices (8): Melts beautifully inside, delivering that oozy, cheesy texture.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup + ½ cup): Boosts the savory flavor and gives the sauce a lovely cheesy tang.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection without sticking.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the creamy sauce.
- Half and half (1 ½ cups): Creates the rich and velvety base for the garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (optional): Used to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom Garlic Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Melt the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Let the garlic sauté for a minute until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness. Toss in the sliced brown mushrooms, season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley, and cook until the mushrooms become tender and release their juices. Once softened, set this savory mixture aside to cool slightly for easier stuffing.
Step 2: Season and Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Pat your chicken breasts dry so they’ll sear nicely. Then season each with salt, pepper, onion powder, and dried parsley. Carefully create a horizontal pocket in the thickest part of each breast—this will be the delicious cavity for your stuffing. Fill each pocket with two slices of mozzarella cheese, followed evenly by the cooled mushroom mixture. Top each with a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese and secure the openings shut with toothpicks to keep all that cheesy goodness inside during cooking.
Step 3: Sear and Bake the Chicken
Using the same skillet you cooked the mushrooms in, heat olive oil over medium heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the pan and sear on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust, about 3-4 minutes per side. Then cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and juicy, with no pink remaining in the center.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Once the chicken is baking, return to the skillet and add two cloves of minced garlic over low heat, frying gently for about a minute. Stir in the Dijon mustard and slowly whisk in the half and half, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the remaining Parmesan cheese and any leftover mushrooms, letting the sauce thicken slightly as the cheese melts. If the sauce feels too thin, mix in the cornstarch slurry and stir until it reaches a creamy, luscious consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley.
Step 5: Serve with Sauce Poured Over
When the chicken is done, take out the toothpicks and nestle each breast back into the skillet to bathe in the garlic Parmesan sauce. Spoon the sauce generously over the top, ensuring each bite is rich and flavorful. This step brings all elements together for a stunning presentation and mouthwatering finish to your Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, grated Parmesan or even a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate both taste and presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic mashed cauliflower create a comforting balance. Roasted seasonal vegetables or a simple green salad offer freshness and crunch. You can also serve it over a bed of silky pasta or steamed rice to soak up the heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Make it look restaurant-worthy by plating the chicken breast whole with sauce artfully drizzled on top, garnished with parsley sprigs. Alternatively, slice the stuffed chicken to showcase the gooey cheese and mushroom filling invitingly. Serving in individual cast iron skillets at the table adds a rustic, cozy vibe perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store the chicken and sauce together to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked stuffed chicken individually wrapped in foil or freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze before adding the sauce, then prepare a fresh sauce or freeze the sauce separately and reheat them together.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil or warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, spooning sauce over the chicken to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving directly, as that can make the chicken dry and the cheese stringy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms in this recipe?
Absolutely! While brown mushrooms add a nice earthy depth, cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms all work beautifully and bring their own unique flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes! Since the dish mainly consists of chicken, mushrooms, butter, cheese, and cream, it’s low in carbs and perfect for keto or low-carb eating plans. Just choose low-carb side dishes to complement it.
Can I use different cheeses instead of mozzarella and Parmesan?
Definitely. Swiss, provolone, or fontina can melt nicely inside the chicken, and Pecorino Romano can substitute Parmesan for a sharper note. Feel free to experiment with your favorites.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Be careful not to overcook the chicken—baking just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) will keep it tender. Searing the chicken first also helps lock in juices and adds flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use dairy-free cheese alternatives, and swap half and half with coconut cream or another plant-based cream. The flavors will be different but still delicious!
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner in my kitchen and yours will be too once you try it. It perfectly blends comfort food with a touch of elegance, guaranteed to wow family and friends at dinner. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe proves that simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create something truly spectacular. So grab those mushrooms and cheeses, and dive into this cheesy, garlicky, buttery delight—you’re going to love every bite!
