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 looking for a game changer for weeknight dinners, look no further than grilled stuffed chicken. This delicious dish not only elevates the flavors of simple chicken but also makes use of ingredients that you probably have on hand. Just imagine tender chicken breasts, marinated to perfection, and filled with a mouthwatering mixture of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and gooey cheese. It’s sure to become a staple at your dinner table.

Why Grilled Stuffed Chicken is a Game Changer for Weeknight Dinners

This recipe is perfect for busy young professionals who want a meal that’s both quick and nourishing. With prep only taking about 35 minutes and a cooking time of just 15 minutes, you can put a flavorful dinner on the table in under an hour.

To top it all off, grilling gives the chicken a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich cream sauce. The best part? It’s customizable! Want to add turkey bacon or chicken ham? Go for it! The versatility ensures that you can adapt this dish to fit your taste preferences.

Explore more about marinades and grilling tips on Serious Eats or check out ideas for side dishes on Bon Appétit. So, why wait? Let’s dive into this grilled stuffed chicken recipe and make your weeknight dinners something to look forward to!

Ingredients for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Main ingredients

To kick off your grilled stuffed chicken adventure, you'll need the following main items:

4 large boneless chicken breasts: The canvas for our delicious stuffing.
½ cup Tony Chachere’s 30-Minute Chicken Marinade: This will infuse the chicken with a burst of flavor.

Stuffing ingredients

Next up, let's dive into the scrumptious stuffing that will take your chicken to the next level:

8 oz cream cheese: The creamy base that holds everything together.
12 oz chopped spinach: Fresh and nutritious, it adds a pop of color and health.
6 oz sun-dried tomatoes: Packed with flavor, they’ll enhance the overall taste.
1 cup Mozzarella or Queso cheese: Choose your favorite for that melty goodness.
2 teaspoon Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning: Because a little extra spice is always nice!

Cream sauce ingredients

To elevate your dish further, let’s whip up that dreamy cream sauce with:

1 tablespoon butter: The start of something delicious.
1 cup heavy cream: This will make our sauce luxuriously thick.
2 teaspoon oil from sun-dried tomatoes: Adding a hint of tanginess.
½ cup grated Parmesan: Rich and nutty, it rounds out the flavor.
1 teaspoon Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs Seasoning: Just a dash to tie it all together.

With these ingredients on hand, you're well on your way to impressing everyone at your next gathering! If you're looking for more variations, check out Good Housekeeping for extra inspiration.

Preparing Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Making grilled stuffed chicken can elevate your weekday dinners into something truly special. It's a blend of flavors that even your picky friends won't resist! Let’s break down the steps to make this delicious dish easy and enjoyable.

Marinate the chicken

To ensure our chicken is flavorful, we start with marinating. Take four large boneless chicken breasts and slice them in half to create a pocket for your tasty stuffing. Immerse the chicken in Tony Chachere’s 30-Minute Chicken Marinade for at least 30 minutes; this allows the chicken to soak in all those zesty flavors. While you wait, consider how marinating not only enhances taste but also keeps the chicken moist during grilling. If you’re looking for more marinating tips, the USDA's Food Safety website has some great resources for handling chicken safely.

Prepare the stuffing

While the chicken is marinating, it's time to whip up that delicious stuffing. In a bowl, mix together:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
12 oz chopped spinach (fresh or frozen)
6 oz sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
1 cup mozzarella or queso cheese
2 teaspoon Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs seasoning

Stir everything until well combined. The cream cheese acts as a wonderful base, making the stuffing creamy and indulgent while the spinach adds nutrients and color. Using sun-dried tomatoes brings in a tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the cheeses. If you love stuffed chicken, you might want to check out other great filling ideas at Taste of Home.

Stuff and seal the chicken breasts

Now we’ll get to the fun part! Evenly distribute the stuffing into each marinated chicken breast. Be generous; this is where all the flavor lives! Once you’ve stuffed them, seal them securely using toothpicks. This prevents the stuffing from spilling out during grilling. Don't shy away from adding a pinch of extra seasoning on the outside for that added punch.

Grill the chicken

Preheat your grill to medium heat, ensuring that the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking. Add your stuffed chicken and let it cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit—use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Grilling not only enhances the flavor but locks in the moisture of the chicken, creating those beautiful grill marks. If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, consider adding wood chips for extra aroma.

Make the cream sauce

While the chicken is grilling, let’s elevate our dish with a creamy sauce. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 teaspoons of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. This brings a rich flavor, mixing harmoniously with your grilled stuffed chicken. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Tony Chachere’s Spice N’ Herbs seasoning, bringing it to a gentle boil and then reducing to a simmer for about 5 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly, creating a luxurious topping for your chicken.

Now that you’re prepped, enjoy this culinary masterpiece with your friends and family. Happy grilling!

Variations on Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken

Elevate your grilled stuffed chicken experience with a Mediterranean twist! Substitute the traditional filling with a mixture of feta cheese, black olives, and fresh basil. This combination not only adds delightful flavors but also transports your taste buds to the sunlit coasts of Greece. Serve it with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an extra zing.

Mexican-Inspired Stuffed Chicken

For a spicy kick, consider a Mexican-inspired version. Use pepper jack cheese, cilantro, and diced jalapeños for stuffing. Pair this with a side of fresh pico de gallo or guacamole. Adding a splash of lime juice enhances the freshness and brightens the entire dish. These adaptations ensure that your grilled stuffed chicken not only satisfies your cravings but also sparks culinary creativity!

For more inspiration, check out Food Network's Mexican recipes.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Ensuring Juicy Chicken

To achieve the juiciest grilled stuffed chicken, remember to marinate your chicken breasts well—Tony Chachere’s 30-Minute Chicken Marinade works wonders! Also, avoid overcooking; using a meat thermometer ensures they're perfectly cooked (165°F is your target). Allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes before cutting – this helps to lock in moisture.

Alternative Grilling Methods

If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, fear not! You can use a grill pan on the stove or even bake the stuffed chicken in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. Each method will yield delicious results, so choose what works best for you. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings for your grilled stuffed chicken to keep things interesting!

For more grilling tips, check out America’s Test Kitchen.

Serving suggestions for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Pairing with sides

When enjoying grilled stuffed chicken, consider sides that complement its rich flavors. Fresh, crisp salads topped with a lemon vinaigrette can balance the dish's creaminess. Also, roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini add both color and nutrition to your plate. For heartier options, creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa salad bring a delightful texture.

Presentation ideas

To elevate your presentation, slice the stuffed chicken slightly to showcase the vibrant filling. Serve it on a rustic wooden board with a drizzle of the exquisite cream sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an appealing touch. Add a side of colorful vegetables to create a feast for the eyes—perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals.

For helpful tips on grilling chicken or stunning plating ideas, check out The Kitchn for inspiration!

Time Breakdown for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Preparation Time

Get ready to embark on your culinary adventure with a preparation time of just 35 minutes. This includes marinating the chicken and mixing up that delicious stuffing filled with goodies like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.

Cooking Time

Once you're prepped, cook the grilled stuffed chicken for about 15 minutes. It’s quick and easy—perfect for those busy weeknights! Just ensure it reaches that safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish. With this efficient time breakdown, you'll have a fantastic meal ready to impress your friends and family in no time!

For more tips on marinating chicken, check out resources from the Poultry Association. If you're curious about various cooking methods, the Chicken Council provides excellent insights into grilling techniques!

Nutritional Facts for Grilled Stuffed Chicken

When diving into a flavor-packed dish like grilled stuffed chicken, it's essential to know the nutritional benefits it offers. Here's a quick overview:

Calories

Each serving of this delicious grilled stuffed chicken contains approximately 450 calories, making it a satisfying yet healthy option for a summer meal.

Protein

You’ll get a hearty boost in protein, with about 45 grams per serving. This is fantastic for muscle repair and growth, especially if you're active or looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Sodium

Keep in mind the sodium level is around 800 mg per serving, largely due to the marinade and seasoning. It can be adjusted to suit your dietary needs by reducing the seasoning or using low-sodium options.

For more detailed nutritional information, check out MyFitnessPal or NutritionData. Enjoy!

FAQ about Grilled Stuffed Chicken

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing the stuffing for your grilled stuffed chicken ahead of time is a great idea. Simply mix all the stuffing ingredients together, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This not only saves time on the day of grilling but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What can I substitute for chicken breasts?
If you're looking for alternatives, you can use thinly sliced turkey cutlets, pork chops, or even zucchini boats for a veggie twist! Each option offers unique flavors and textures that can complement your stuffing.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check if your grilled stuffed chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat while remaining juicy and flavorful. If you don’t have a thermometer, simply cut into a breast; the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.

For more tips, head over to The Spruce Eats for expert advice on cooking chicken!

Conclusion on Grilled Stuffed Chicken

In conclusion, this grilled stuffed chicken recipe is a must-try for your next gathering. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it promises to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Don't forget the creamy sauce—it takes this dish to a new level of deliciousness!

For more cooking inspiration, check out Food Network and AllRecipes. Happy grilling!