Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken

The moment I discovered Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken, I knew I had stumbled upon a culinary treasure. It was a rainy afternoon, and I wanted something comforting yet adventurous to bring a spark to my kitchen. The thought of juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture sent my taste buds into a frenzy. I could already imagine the blissful taste of melting cheddar cheese, the zing from pimentos, and the satisfying crunch of breadcrumbs. This dish not only satisfies a craving but also brings people together—perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests. The best part? It’s simple to prepare, and the flavors are nothing short of delightful.

Main Ingredients for Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken

When it comes to cooking, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken, we’re using a delightful mix of flavors and textures that work harmoniously together. The star players here are the chicken breasts which serve as the perfect vessel for our creamy pimento cheese filling.

• 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the filling, offering a rich and tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
• 2 ounces cream cheese: Adds creaminess and richness, binding the filling together.
• 2 tablespoons diced pimentos: These bring a delightful sweetness and color to the filling.
• 2 green onions: Sliced for a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the cheese.
• 2 slices bacon: Cooked and crumbled for an extra savory crunch.
• Pinch of garlic powder: Adds depth and a subtle zing.
• Pinch of cayenne pepper: For a hint of heat that balances the creaminess.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect vehicle for our delicious filling.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing flavors.
• 1 large egg: Helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
• 1 cup dry breadcrumbs: Coats the chicken for a crispy texture.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and flavor during cooking.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken to golden perfection.

How to Assemble Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Assembling Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is an enjoyable process that allows you to unleash your inner chef. It’s all about creating pockets in the chicken and filling them with that creamy goodness. Let’s dive into the steps!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This is an essential step, ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly and comes out juicy.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, diced pimentos, green onions, bacon, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until everything is combined into a creamy filling. You can prepare this mixture a day in advance; just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until needed.
3. Take each chicken breast and carefully cut a slit in the thick end to create a pocket. Be gentle so you don’t cut all the way through. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper, enhancing the flavor of the meat.
4. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water until combined. This egg mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
5. Place the dry breadcrumbs in another shallow dish, ready for coating.
6. Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the pimento cheese filling. Make sure to pack it in well, so it doesn’t ooze out while cooking.
7. Dip the stuffed chicken breasts into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Then, press them into the breadcrumbs until they are fully covered. This will give them a lovely crunchy exterior.
8. In a large, oven-proof skillet, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet.
9. Cook the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. You want to achieve a nice crispiness on the outside.
10. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
11. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains juicy.

Customization Ideas

Every chef has their own flair, and Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is the perfect base for your creative ideas. Here are some customization possibilities:

• Add Vegetables: Consider stuffing in some finely chopped veggies, like spinach or mushrooms, to enhance the nutrition and flavor.
• Spice Levels: For those who love heat, why not add diced jalapeños to the filling? It’ll give the dish an exciting kick!
• Herbs Galore: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the flavor. Stir some into the filling for a fresh touch.
• Different Breading: Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, try using crushed panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy finish.
• Stuffing Options: You can swap the pimento cheese with other flavorful spreads, like hummus or sun-dried tomato spread.
• Grill Instead: If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken instead of baking. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Serve with Dipping Sauce: A creamy ranch or spicy aioli can make the dish even more enjoyable for dipping!

Side Dish Ideas for Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken

When it comes to serving Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken, the right side dishes can elevate the meal even further. Here are some fantastic options:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes perfectly balance the rich flavors of the stuffed chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrients to your plate.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with tangy dressing and croutons makes for a refreshing side.
• Steamed Asparagus: The slight crunch of asparagus pairs beautifully with the tender chicken.
• Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf with herbs offers a pleasant contrast to the crispy chicken.
• Coleslaw: A light and crunchy coleslaw brings a refreshing texture and balances richness.
• Quinoa Salad: A vibrant quinoa salad dotted with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a healthy element.
• Garlic Bread: Always a crowd-pleaser, garlic bread complements the meal and makes it feel special.

FAQ

Conclusion

Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with the creamy goodness of pimento cheese, creating a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe will surely impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken combines juicy, tender chicken with a creamy, cheesy filling that will have you craving more. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Make it tonight and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

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
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together all pimento cheese ingredients. Note: This can be done a day in advance. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until needed.
3. Cut a slit in the thick end of each chicken breast and then carefully cut to form a pocket. Season both sides of chicken with salt and pepper.
4. In a shallow bowl whisk together the egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
5. Stuff the pimento cheese into the pockets in the chicken. Dip the chicken in egg mixture, coating both sides. Press the chicken into the breadcrumbs.
6. Heat the oil and butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer chicken to oven for 12 to 14 minutes.
8. Serve.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked stuffed chicken for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Pairing: Serve with a light salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
• Cooking Time Adjustment: If using larger chicken breasts, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time for a quicker cooking process during the week.

Previous PostRanch Chicken and Rice

Next Post Roast Chicken

Meet Quinn Taylor

Great food doesn't have to be complicated, it just has to be smart. I focus on streamlining our recipes so you get maximum flavor with minimum stress. I cooked, timed, and tasted this dish multiple times to ensure it fits perfectly into your busy life while still delivering that 'wow' factor.