If you have been searching for a dish that perfectly blends juicy, tender chicken with a rich, velvety sauce, you are in for a treat with this Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe. The marriage of fresh spinach, melty cheeses, and aromatic garlic nestled inside grilled chicken breasts, all topped with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, makes for a meal that feels both comforting and elegant. It’s one of those recipes that effortlessly impresses at dinner parties yet is simple enough for a cozy weeknight feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe lies in the quality and simplicity of the ingredients. Each component adds a unique layer — from the tender chicken breasts and vibrant spinach to the rich cheeses and silky cream sauce.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for easy stuffing and even grilling.
- Olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
- Garlic and onion powder: Essential for seasoning and building savory depth.
- Salt and pepper: Basic but crucial to enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh spinach: Adds color, freshness, and a nutritional boost.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, comforting filling.
- Parmesan cheese: Both inside the stuffing and the sauce, lending nutty, sharp character.
- Fresh garlic: Minced to infuse that irresistible aromatic punch.
- Fresh basil (optional): Lifts the flavors with a fragrant, herbaceous note.
- Butter and flour: The classic base for a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream and chicken broth: Combine to create the silky sauce that wraps around the chicken.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Perfect for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness when garnishing.
How to Make Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This sets the stage for perfectly cooked chicken that sears on the outside while staying juicy inside. Next, carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. This pocket will hold the delicious stuffing and keep it intact while grilling.
Step 2: Mix and Stuff the Filling
In a bowl, combine chopped fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil if you’re using it. This mixture is where the flavor really starts to shine with the melty cheese blending with fresh herbs and garlic. Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with this blend, then secure the openings with toothpicks to keep that goodness from escaping during grilling.
Step 3: Season and Grill the Chicken
Before placing the chicken on the grill, rub each breast with olive oil and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning creates a beautifully flavorful crust. Grill the stuffed chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove them and let the chicken rest for a few minutes — this step helps keep every bite juicy and tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
While the chicken is resting, treat yourself to making the sauce. Melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add in the heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to that perfect creamy consistency. Finish by stirring in Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for a couple more minutes until the sauce is smooth and decadently rich.
How to Serve Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley right before serving provides a lovely burst of green and a subtle herbal note that balances the richness of the sauce. You can also zest a bit of lemon for a fresh pop that cuts through the creaminess.
Side Dishes
Serve this chicken alongside buttery mashed potatoes or creamy risotto to soak up every bit of that sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with grilled asparagus or a crisp green salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette, adding both texture contrast and freshness to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, slice the grilled stuffed chicken breasts on a diagonal to showcase the colorful and cheesy filling. Drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce elegantly over the top and scatter the herb garnish artfully. You can also plate it over a bed of cooked pasta tossed in olive oil for a complete, restaurant-worthy dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the grilled stuffed chicken cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken when chilled, but it will loosen back up nicely upon reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before grilling or after cooking. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen chicken is best used within 2 months to maintain quality.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating the sauce will help restore its luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses for the stuffing?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap mozzarella and Parmesan with cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even gouda for a different flavor experience. Just choose ones that melt well.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem at all. You can cook these stuffed chicken breasts in a skillet on the stove or bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
Is it okay to prepare the stuffed chicken ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken breasts with stuffing a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated until ready to grill. Just make sure to cover tightly to prevent drying out.
How can I make the creamy Parmesan sauce lighter?
Using half-and-half or substituting the heavy cream with Greek yogurt can reduce the richness while keeping the sauce creamy. Just add yogurt at the end on low heat to avoid curdling.
What can I serve instead of the suggested side dishes?
Roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or even crusty garlic bread all make delicious partners for this hearty grilled stuffed chicken with creamy Parmesan sauce recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe truly transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels special yet approachable. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with flavors that warm your soul. Give it a try and watch how this recipe becomes one of your new favorites to share again and again.
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Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce is a delicious and elegant meal featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a savory mixture of spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and fresh basil. Grilled to perfection and served with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Stuffed Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
For the Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium heat to get it ready for cooking the chicken breasts.
- Slice Chicken Pockets: Carefully slice a pocket into the side of each boneless skinless chicken breast, ensuring you do not cut through completely.
- Make Stuffing Mixture: In a small bowl, combine chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil if using.
- Stuff the Chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the opening and keep the stuffing inside during grilling.
- Season the Chicken: Rub each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil, then season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 6–8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before removing toothpicks.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: While the chicken rests, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Make Roux: Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in heavy cream and chicken broth, blending smoothly without lumps.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Serve: Plate the grilled stuffed chicken breasts and spoon the warm cream sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Make sure not to cut all the way through the chicken breasts when creating pockets.
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor and texture.
- Allow the chicken to rest after grilling to keep the meat juicy.
- The cream sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
- To avoid burning, monitor the grill heat and adjust if necessary while cooking the chicken.
