If youโre looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests with a restaurant-quality dish at home, Flavorful Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast is the perfect recipe. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy, and herbaceous stuffing featuring Boursin cheese, fresh spinach, garlic, and mozzarella. The result is a savory, indulgent meal that is both elegant and comforting. The creamy center melts in every bite, complementing the perfectly seared chicken exterior, while the spinach adds a touch of freshness and texture.
What makes this dish special is its balance between simplicity and sophistication. Despite the gourmet flavor, it uses accessible ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques. The searing of the chicken ensures a golden, flavorful crust while locking in moisture, and the stuffing adds layers of richness and aroma. The inclusion of Italian seasoning, garlic, and red pepper flakes enhances the depth of flavor, making this a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
This recipe is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light salad. Itโs also perfect for meal prepping or special occasions, offering a comforting yet refined option for lunch or dinner. Whether youโre an experienced cook or a beginner looking to try something new, this Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast is approachable, satisfying, and sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8โ9 oz each)
- Salt, to taste
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil (good quality, for searing)
- Pepper, to taste
For the Stuffing:
- 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (part-skim, for better melting)
- 3 garlic cloves, freshly minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin garlic & fine herbs cheese, softened at room temperature
Preparation Method
Begin by preparing the stuffing, as this allows the flavors to develop while you prep the chicken. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sautรฉ for 3โ4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute to release their aromatic flavors. Avoid burning the garlic, as it can impart a bitter taste.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and sautรฉ until wilted, about 2โ3 minutes. Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Once cooled, transfer the sautรฉed vegetables to a medium mixing bowl. Add the Boursin cheese, shredded mozzarella, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. This creamy, flavorful stuffing will provide a delicious contrast to the tender chicken.
Next, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat each breast dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Use a sharp knife to create a pocket in the thickest part of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season both sides and the inside of the pocket with salt and pepper. Using a spoon or small spatula, fill each pocket generously with the prepared Boursin-spinach mixture. Do not overfill, as this can make sealing the chicken difficult. Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for 3โ4 minutes on each side until golden brown. The searing step creates a flavorful crust and locks in the juices, ensuring the chicken remains tender and moist. After searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) and bake for 20โ25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165ยฐF (74ยฐC). Baking allows the cheese filling to melt completely and the chicken to cook evenly without drying out.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5โ10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite. Carefully remove any toothpicks before serving. Slice the chicken to reveal the creamy Boursin-stuffed center. The filling should be rich, melted, and well-integrated with the spinach and mozzarella, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Tips for the Perfect Boursin Stuffed Chicken
For maximum flavor, let the Boursin cheese soften at room temperature before mixing it with the spinach and mozzarella. This ensures an even, creamy consistency in the filling. Fresh spinach is recommended, but baby kale or arugula can be used as alternatives for a slightly different flavor profile.
Searing the chicken properly is key. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the breasts and avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can prevent the chicken from browning evenly. If necessary, sear in batches. Using an oven-safe skillet allows you to transition directly from stovetop to oven, minimizing cleanup and preserving the flavorful pan juices.
If you prefer a lower-fat version, part-skim mozzarella is ideal, and Boursin Light can be substituted. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky heat.
Pair this stuffed chicken with sides that complement its creamy and rich flavor. Roasted garlic potatoes, sautรฉed green beans, or a light lemony salad work beautifully. Drizzling a simple pan sauce made from the searing juices and a splash of white wine or chicken broth over the chicken adds an extra layer of flavor.
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Flavorful Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Gourmet Meal Made Simple
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Flavorful Boursin Stuffed Chicken Breast features juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of Boursin cheese, spinach, mozzarella, and aromatic herbs. Perfectly seared and baked for a gourmet dinner at home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8–9 oz each)
- Salt, to taste
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- Pepper, to taste
- ยฝ medium onion, finely diced
- ยฝ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (part-skim)
- 3 garlic cloves, freshly minced
- ยผ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ยฝ tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin garlic & fine herbs cheese, softened
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
- Slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Season inside and out with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil. Sautรฉ onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, and spinach until softened. Remove from heat and mix with mozzarella and Boursin cheese.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts 2โ3 minutes per side until golden.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake 20โ25 minutes, until chicken reaches 165ยฐF (74ยฐC).
- Remove toothpicks and serve immediately.
Notes
- Can substitute Boursin with cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2โ3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking/Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-American
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes. The spinach-Boursin mixture can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add the mixture to the chicken just before cooking to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Yes. Assemble the stuffed chicken breasts but do not cook them. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed.
What can I use if I donโt have Boursin cheese?
You can substitute with cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, and garlic. Adding a little grated Parmesan can also enhance the flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165ยฐF (74ยฐC). This ensures the chicken is cooked safely while remaining moist.
Can I bake the chicken without searing?
Yes, but searing adds color, flavor, and a slight crust. If skipping the sear, bake for 25โ30 minutes, checking for doneness with a thermometer.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. All ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Ensure that any cheese or seasoning used is labeled gluten-free if needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and mozzarella alternatives, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Fresh spinach and seasonings remain the same.
How spicy is the dish?
The optional red pepper flakes provide a mild kick. Adjust according to your preference, or omit entirely for a mild, creamy flavor.
How should leftovers be stored?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the filling from separating.