If you’re looking for a dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with juicy chicken, look no further! Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delightful and savory meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Imagine tender chicken breasts stuffed with a rich and flavorful pimento cheese filling, then baked to perfection. This dish is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why It’s My Go-To

Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is my go-to recipe for several reasons. First, it showcases the beloved Southern classic, pimento cheese, in a fun and unexpected way. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and spices creates a rich filling that pairs beautifully with chicken. Secondly, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with a variety of sides, making it suitable for any meal. Lastly, it’s an impressive dish that is sure to wow your family and friends, yet it doesn’t require culinary expertise to pull off!

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up this scrumptious 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
A pinch of garlic powder
A 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

Equipment & Tools

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment and tools on hand:

Oven: Preheated to 375°F (190°C) to ensure quick and even cooking.
Mixing bowl: For combining the pimento cheese filling.
Meat mallet or rolling pin: To flatten the chicken breasts for easy stuffing.
Baking dish: For baking the stuffed chicken.
Skillet: For cooking the bacon and browning the chicken.
Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure your ingredients.

Mastering Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken: How-To

Ready to make this mouthwatering dish? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 2 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of diced pimentos, 2 sliced green onions, 2 slices of crumbled bacon, a pinch of garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it is about 1/2 inch thick. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to stuff.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and complement the rich filling.

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken

Divide the pimento cheese filling evenly among the chicken breasts, placing the filling in the center of each. Fold the sides of the chicken over the filling and secure with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

In a shallow bowl, beat 1 large egg. In another shallow bowl, place 1 cup of dry breadcrumbs. Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly covered.

Step 6: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, and enjoy the delightful flavors of Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken!

International Equivalents

If you’re cooking from different parts of the world, here are some equivalents for common ingredients:

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Can be replaced with aged gouda or aged white cheddar in some regions.
Pimentos: You can use roasted red peppers if pimentos are unavailable.
Breadcrumbs: Use crushed crackers or panko as a substitute.
Vegetable Oil: Can be replaced with canola oil or sunflower oil.

Don’t Do This

When preparing your Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Don’t skip seasoning the chicken. Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing flavor.
Don’t overstuff the chicken. A generous amount is great, but too much filling can cause it to spill out during cooking.
Don’t rush the cooking process. Browning the chicken before baking adds flavor and texture.
Don’t forget to let the chicken rest after baking. This helps retain the juices and ensures every bite is succulent.

Best Ways to Store

If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance, here’s how to store your Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave for quicker reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cheese for the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even cream cheese mixed with feta for a unique flavor twist.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. Just add extra baking time if cooking from cold.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

While this recipe is centered around chicken, you can substitute the chicken breasts with large portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

What should I serve with Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Serve with These

Complete your meal with these delicious sides:

Wrap-Up

Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of pimento cheese in a hearty and satisfying meal. The combination of the creamy filling and tender chicken creates a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to be a hit.

So next time you’re in the kitchen, give this Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken a try. With its ease of preparation and delicious flavors, you might just find yourself adding it to your regular meal rotation. Happy cooking!