Craving a delicious and filling chicken dish? Look no further than our Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken, which contains 920 calories per serving. This dish is perfect for those looking for a hearty meal that is both tasty and satisfying.
In addition to its great taste, our Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken also boasts a number of nutritional benefits. One serving contains 64 grams of protein, 36 grams of fat, and 8 grams of carbs. It also provides a healthy dose of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.
In this article, we'll explore some tips and tricks for preparing and cooking this dish to perfection. We'll also look at the health benefits of chicken and Parmesan cheese, as well as some variations and perfect pairings for this delicious meal.
Ingredients
To make our Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken, you'll need the following ingredients: - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil All ingredients should be prepped and measured before you begin cooking.
Preparation
Here's how to prepare our Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken: - Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Butterfly chicken breasts and spread mixture evenly inside each pocket.
- In a separate bowl, mix almond flour, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and salt.
- Dip each chicken breast into beaten egg, then cover with almond flour mixture and press to coat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for several minutes before serving.
Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information for our Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken: - calories: 920
- Protein: 64g
- Fat: 36g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Calcium: 548mg
- Iron: 4mg
- Vitamin A: 686IU Keep in mind that nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used and serving size.
Serving Size
Our recipe for Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken makes one serving. If you're cooking for a larger group, simply double or triple the recipe as needed. Keep in mind that cooking times and ingredient proportions may need to be adjusted accordingly.
Flavor Profile
Our Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish, featuring a rich and creamy filling of cream cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. The crispy Parmesan crust adds a delicious crunch and a nutty, savory flavor, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser. If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, you're sure to love our Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken.
Health Benefits
Not only is our Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken delicious, it's also packed with a number of health benefits. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Chicken is also rich in phosphorus, an important nutrient for bone health, and vitamin B6, which plays a role in brain function and heart health. Parmesan cheese, while high in fat and calories, is a good source of calcium and protein. It also contains vitamin A and phosphorus, making it a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet.
Cooking Tips
To ensure that your Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind: - Be sure to fully cook the chicken before serving it. An internal temperature of 165°F is recommended for safe consumption.
- Don't skip the resting step! Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking ensures that the juices distribute evenly and makes for a juicier and more flavorful dish.
- If you don't have almond flour on hand, you can substitute it with regular flour or breadcrumbs.
- For an extra burst of flavor, try drizzling some balsamic glaze or pesto over the top of your Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken.
Variations
Looking to mix things up? Here are a few variations on our classic Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken recipe: - Swap out the cream cheese for goat cheese or feta for a tangier version of the dish.
- Use different herbs and spices in your almond flour mixture to create a unique flavor profile.
- Add some diced bacon or prosciutto to your filling for an extra dose of protein and flavor.
- For a low-carb alternative, substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers or mushrooms.
Perfect Pairings
Our Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as: - Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus
- Garlic mashed potatoes or cauliflower puree
- A simple green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash
- A side of marinara sauce or pesto for dipping For best results, choose sides that complement the flavors of the filling and crust.
History
While the specific origins of Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken are unknown, chicken stuffed with cheese and other fillings has been a popular dish in Italy for centuries. Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a type of hard Italian cheese that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is made from cow's milk and is known for its nutty flavor and hard, dry texture. In Italy, Parmesan is often grated over pasta dishes or served as a snack with fruit or wine.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken
1. How many calories are in one serving of Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken?
One serving of Parmesan Crusted Stuffed Chicken contains 920 calories.
2. What ingredients are in the Parmesan crust?
The Parmesan crust is made with a blend of crushed crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. What is the filling made of?
The filling is made from a mixture of cream cheese, chopped spinach, and diced chicken.
4. How is the chicken prepared?
The chicken is first pounded thin, then filled with the cream cheese and spinach mixture. The chicken is then rolled up and coated in the Parmesan crust before being baked in the oven.
5. Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken can be prepared and assembled up to a day in advance, then covered and refrigerated until ready to bake.