Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170g each)
- 4 oz / 115g cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz / 115g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 oz / 55g cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup / 15g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup / 60g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup / 85g panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions:
- Butterfly each chicken breast. Place between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
- In a bowl, combine all cheese filling ingredients. Mix well.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over the filling and secure with toothpicks (if needed).
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a second dish, place the beaten egg. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat oven to 375°F / 190°C. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a lightly oiled baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C. Chicken should be golden brown and juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks (if used) and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.