Introduction
Get ready to elevate your grill game with these Grilled Stuffed Chicken Breasts that deliver a flavor-packed punch without the use of breadcrumbs! This recipe combines the savory goodness of bacon, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach, all wrapped inside tender chicken breasts, making it the perfect dish for your summer barbecues or family dinners. The addition of a rich cream sauce will take it to the next level, ensuring every bite is a celebration of mouthwatering flavors.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 cup Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thickness and season with salt, pepper, and Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Spoon the mixture onto each chicken breast and roll them up.
4. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with bacon slices and secure with toothpicks.
5. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through, about 25 to 30 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the cream sauce. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Simmer until slightly thickened.
7. Serve the grilled stuffed chicken topped with the creamy sauce and enjoy!
With these Grilled Stuffed Chicken Breasts, you’re not just cooking; you’re crafting a meal that brings everyone together. Enjoy the delicious flavor journey!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and the bacon becomes crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thickness. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Make the Stuffing
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, spinach leaves, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Spoon the stuffing mixture onto each chicken breast. Carefully roll them up tightly without spilling the filling.
Step 5: Wrap with Bacon
Take the rolled chicken breasts and wrap each one with two slices of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside.
Step 6: Grill the Chicken
Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 25 to 30 minutes, turning occasionally. Ensure the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Sauce
While the chicken is grilling, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning, and Dijon mustard in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 8: Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and discard the toothpicks. Serve the grilled stuffed chicken topped with the creamy sauce and enjoy your meal!
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Thickness
Ensure that the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness to promote consistent cooking.
Note 2: Bacon Crispiness
For extra crispiness, you can briefly sear the bacon-wrapped chicken on direct heat before moving it to indirect heat to finish cooking.
Note 3: Alternative Cheeses
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, to customize the flavor profile of your stuffed chicken.
Note 4: Storage
Leftover grilled stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook Techniques
Pounding Chicken
Pounding chicken breasts ensures even cooking and tenderness. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to flatten the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness, which helps the chicken cook uniformly on the grill.
Grilling Stuffed Chicken
Grilling stuffed chicken requires a gentle touch. Wrap the chicken securely with bacon to keep the filling from spilling out. Turn the chicken occasionally while grilling to ensure it cooks evenly and the bacon crisps up perfectly.
Preparing Cream Sauce
Simmer the cream sauce over low to medium heat to avoid curdling. Stir frequently and let it thicken slightly to enhance the flavors before serving.
FAQ
Can I use other cheeses for stuffing?
Yes, feel free to substitute with other favorite cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
What can I use instead of bacon?
Turkey bacon or prosciutto can be a lighter alternative, or you can skip the bacon entirely for a healthier version.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, the stuffing can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to stuff the chicken.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
You can substitute the chicken with large portobello mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Other Stuffed Chicken Variations
Consider stuffing chicken with different vegetables, nuts, or flavored cheeses for new combinations.
Alternative Grilling Methods
Try baking or sautéing stuffed chicken for a different texture if you don’t have access to a grill.
Side Dish Pairings
Serve with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables to complete your meal and add some nutritious elements.
