Ingredients:
- 8 oz Cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, approximately 6 oz each
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp Coarse black pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
- Place the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once it starts to foam, add the 8 oz of chopped cremini mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until the mushrooms shatter their moisture and turn dark golden. Add the minced garlic during the last minute so it softens without burning.
- Transfer the warm mushroom mixture to a small bowl. Stir in the 1/2 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and 1 tbsp parsley. Note: The residual heat from the mushrooms will start to soften the cheese, helping it bind together.
- Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal slit into the thickest part of each breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through to the other side or the ends.
- Spoon the mushroom and cheese mixture evenly into each chicken pocket. Press the edges of the chicken together to seal. Note: If the pocket is too large, you can use a toothpick to pin it shut, just remember to remove it before serving.
- Mix the kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a small dish. Rub this mixture over both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts. Until the chicken is evenly coated and slightly tacky to the touch.
- Heat the 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Carefully place the chicken in the pan. Sear for 5 to 6 minutes until the bottom is deeply browned and releases easily from the pan.
- Flip the chicken carefully. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes on the other side. Until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the cheese is visibly molten. The kitchen should smell like roasted garlic and savory herbs at this point.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest on a clean plate for 5 minutes. Until the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is velvety and moist.