Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that is not only flavorful but also impressive enough to serve at a dinner party, look no further than Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken. This dish combines the rich and creamy goodness of pimento cheese with juicy, tender chicken breasts, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. The combination of sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and crispy bacon creates a savory stuffing that pairs beautifully with the chicken. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare! Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering dish.

The Upside of Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken offers several benefits that make it an excellent choice for any occasion. First, it’s an enticing way to elevate your typical chicken dinner. The creamy filling adds a burst of flavor that you wouldn’t expect from a standard chicken breast. Second, this dish can be customized easily to suit your taste preferences. Lastly, Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is perfect for meal prep; it reheats well and can be paired with various sides for a complete meal.

Gather These Ingredients

To make Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons diced pimentos, drained well
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• pinch of garlic powder
• pinch of cayenne pepper
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Tools & Equipment Needed

To prepare this delectable dish, you will need the following tools:

• Cutting board: For chopping vegetables and preparing chicken.
• Sharp knife: To slice chicken and vegetables easily.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the stuffing ingredients.
• Baking dish: To hold your stuffed chicken during baking.
• Skillet: For cooking the chicken and adding a golden crust.
• Meat thermometer: To ensure chicken is cooked to the proper temperature.

Mastering Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken: How-To

Follow these simple steps to create your own Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, diced pimentos, sliced green onions, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and gently butterfly each breast, creating a pocket for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared pimento cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if necessary, ensuring the filling stays intact during cooking.

Step 4: Breading the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, beat the large egg. In another bowl, place the dry breadcrumbs. Carefully dip each stuffed chicken breast into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat with breadcrumbs. Make sure the chicken is well-covered.

Step 5: Cooking the Chicken

In a skillet, heat the butter and vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 6: Baking

Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help retain the juices. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!

Texture-Safe Substitutions

If you’re looking to modify the recipe, consider these substitutions:

• Cheese: Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
• Bacon: Substitute with turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko for an extra crunch.
• Green onions: Chopped chives can be used as an alternative.

Steer Clear of These

When preparing Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken, avoid the following:

• Do not use pre-shredded cheese as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
• Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry.
• Steer clear of using too much liquid in the stuffing, as this can make it soggy.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. For frozen chicken, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and stuff it ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook it.

What can I serve with Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile.

Is this dish spicy?

The cayenne pepper adds a slight kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.

Try These Next

If you love Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken, you might also enjoy these recipes:

• Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Cornbread
• Easy Chicken Curry
• Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making delicious Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, and it may just become a new staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations with others!