Easy Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Ham and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines simplicity, comfort, and irresistible flavor, then this Easy Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Ham and Cheese recipe is your new best friend. Juicy chicken breasts are generously filled with savory ham and melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s both quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Whether dinner is for family, friends, or just a special treat for yourself, this recipe balances taste and convenience perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously simple: Few ingredients come together to create rich layers of flavor that feel gourmet without the fuss.
• Quick prep time: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Kid-friendly appeal: The cheesy, ham-stuffed center is a crowd-pleaser for little ones and adults alike.
• Protein-packed meal: Chicken breasts offer lean protein, making this dish satisfying and nutritious.
• Customizable flavors: Easily adapt to your taste by swapping cheeses or adding herbs and spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that work together to deliver big flavor while keeping preparation straightforward. Each item adds a specific texture or taste that makes this dish shine.

• Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless and evenly thick pieces for easy stuffing and cooking.
• Ham slices: Thinly sliced ham provides that salty, smoky flavor essential for stuffing.
• Cheese: Swiss or mozzarella melt beautifully and add creamy richness inside the chicken.
• Olive oil or butter: For searing and keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances all the natural flavors.
• Optional herbs: Thyme, parsley or paprika add subtle aroma and color.

Variations for Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Ham and Cheese

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Whether you prefer different cheeses, want to add veggies, or need to adjust for dietary choices, this recipe adapts easily.

• Cheese swap: Use cheddar, gouda, or provolone to change the flavor profile slightly.
• Extra greens: Add spinach or kale inside the stuffing for added nutrition and freshness.
• Spicy kick: Include crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the filling for heat.
• Ham alternatives: Try prosciutto or turkey slices for a lighter or different taste.
• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free but ensure all ingredients comply if using processed meats.

How to Make Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Ham and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by rinsing and patting dry your chicken breasts. Carefully slice each breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting through completely, making room for the filling.

Step 2: Layer Ham and Cheese

Place a layer of ham slices inside each chicken pocket, followed by generous amounts of your chosen cheese. Be sure not to overfill to avoid spillage during cooking.

Step 3: Secure the Stuffing

Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to close the chicken breasts securely, ensuring the ham and cheese stay inside as it cooks.

Step 4: Season and Sear

Lightly season the outside with salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) to finish cooking through, about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Ham and Cheese

• Even thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking and easier stuffing.
• Don’t overstuff: Overfilling can cause the cheese to leak, so use just enough to fill comfortably.
• Secure well: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to avoid losses during cooking and keep the presentation neat.
• Use a meat thermometer: This ensures perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.
• Rest after cooking: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices before slicing.

How to Serve Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Ham and Cheese

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or chopped chives sprinkled on top add a bright dash of color and a fresh herbaceous note to the dish.

Side Dishes

Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the stuffed chicken diagonally to reveal the beautiful ham and cheese layers inside, serving it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a light sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and safe.

Freezing

Wrap stuffed chicken breasts individually in plastic wrap and foil for freezing up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven or covered skillet to maintain moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese besides Swiss or mozzarella?

Absolutely! Cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone melt well and add their own unique flavors to the chicken.

Is it necessary to use toothpicks or kitchen twine?

Using toothpicks or twine helps keep the stuffing inside during cooking, but if you’re careful with seam sealing, it can work without them.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Ensure even cooking by pounding chicken breasts to uniform thickness and avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute cheese with dairy-free alternatives and check that your ham is suitable for your dietary needs.

What sides pair best with Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Ham and Cheese?

Classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement the dish perfectly without overpowering it.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Ham and Cheese recipe is a fantastic way to elevate a basic protein into something cozy and elegant, all while keeping the process straightforward. It’s a guaranteed winner for quick dinners that don’t sacrifice flavor, and I’m confident it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

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