Moist Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken

There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also feels like a special treat. For me, cooking is more than just following a recipe—it’s about crafting an experience. This Moist Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. It’s juicy, flavorful, and has that perfect balance of savory ham and gooey cheese that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a small gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels gourmet. The combination of tender chicken, smoky ham, and melted cheese creates a harmony of flavors that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s versatile—you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a regular in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can make it at home.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Chicken breasts: The star of the dish, chicken breasts provide a lean and tender base. Look for boneless, skinless breasts that are evenly sized for even cooking.

Ham: Thinly sliced ham adds a smoky, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and cheese. You can use deli ham or leftover baked ham for this recipe.

Cheese: I recommend using a melty cheese like mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar. The cheese adds richness and creates that gooey, irresistible filling.

Breadcrumbs: These give the chicken a crispy outer layer. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your preference.

Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps the breadcrumbs crisp up and adds a touch of richness to the dish.

Seasonings: Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and filling.

Toothpicks or kitchen twine: These are essential for securing the stuffed chicken breasts so they hold their shape during cooking.

Ingredients List

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 slices of thinly sliced ham
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar)
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Toothpicks or kitchen twine

How to Make Moist Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your workspace by laying out all the ingredients. This makes the process smoother and ensures you don’t miss anything.

Step 2: Butterfly the Chicken Breasts

Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, but not all the way through. Open the breast like a book to create a pocket for the filling.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Layer two slices of ham inside each butterflied chicken breast, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Be careful not to overstuff, as this can make it harder to seal the chicken.

Step 4: Secure the Chicken

Close the chicken breasts and secure them with toothpicks or kitchen twine. This step is crucial to keep the filling inside while cooking.

Step 5: Season and Coat

Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then, brush each breast lightly with olive oil and coat evenly with breadcrumbs.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks or twine. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making This Recipe

Pound the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven, gently pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook more evenly.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
Customize the Filling: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs like basil for extra flavor.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Make It Crispier: For an extra crispy crust, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even pork chops, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What sides go well with this dish?
This pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked chicken breasts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, panko, or even almond flour for a gluten-free option.

Enjoy making this Moist Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken—it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!