Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cheese and Olives
This delightful stuffed chicken dish combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy cheese filling, studded with tangy olives and aromatic herbs. Wrapped in thin ham for extra flavor, this recipe delivers an impressive meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for special occasions, this dish offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that will please both family and guests alike.
Equipment
- Large cutting board
- Sharp chef's knife
- Mixing bowl
- Oven-safe baking dish (9×13 inch / 23×33 cm)
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each) [170-225g each]
- 4 slices Thin ham (about 2 oz total) [60g]
Dairy
- 7 oz Cream cheese or goat cheese softened [200g]
Produce
- 1/2 cup Pitted green olives chopped (2.5 oz) [70g]
- 2 tablespoons Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or oregano) chopped, OR 2 teaspoons dried mixed herbs
Baking & Spices
- 1/4 teaspoon Paprika [1.25 ml]
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt [1.25 ml]
- 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper [1.25 ml]
Oils & Vinegars
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil or olive oil [30 ml]
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese (or goat cheese), chopped green olives, chopped fresh herbs (or dried herbs), paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into the thickest part of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the four chicken breasts, stuffing it into the pockets you’ve created.
- Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with a slice of ham, ensuring the opening is sealed.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat the oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the wrapped chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until the ham is lightly golden.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve
- Slice each stuffed chicken breast diagonally and arrange on plates. Serve immediately with a side salad or your choice of vegetables.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese or ricotta.
- Replace ham with prosciutto for a more intense flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Use fresh herbs when possible for the best flavor.
Quick Tips:
- To prevent the cheese from oozing out, chill the stuffed chicken for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Secure the ham wrap with toothpicks if needed.
- For extra crispy ham, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain juices.
Side Dish Suggestions:
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- Mixed green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- Steamed quinoa or brown rice
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein from chicken and cheese, supporting muscle health
- Olives provide healthy fats and antioxidants
- Fresh herbs offer various vitamins and minerals
- Low in carbohydrates, suitable for those watching their carb intake
Serving Suggestions:
- Slice chicken diagonally and fan out on the plate for an elegant presentation
- Garnish with fresh herb sprigs and a lemon wedge
- Serve with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- Drizzle with a small amount of good quality extra virgin olive oil before serving
Meal Prep Tips:
- Prepare the cheese and olive filling up to 2 days in advance
- Stuff and wrap the chicken breasts the night before cooking
- Pre-chop herbs and store in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator
- Measure out seasonings in advance for quick assembly
Customization Ideas:
- Vegetarian option: Use large portobello mushrooms instead of chicken
- Gluten-free: Ensure ham is gluten-free or omit it
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternative and wrap in bacon instead of ham
- Swap olives for sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile
- Add spinach to the cheese mixture for extra nutrients and color
