Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is a delicious twist on the classic Italian-American favorite. This version features juicy chicken breasts filled with gooey mozzarella and savory herbs, then breaded, pan-fried until golden, and baked in marinara sauce with melted parmesan and more mozzarella on top. It’s crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A cheesy, melty center adds a delicious surprise
• Crispy outside, juicy and flavorful inside
• Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or special meal
• Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep
• Bakes in one dish for easy cleanup
• Impresses guests with little extra effort
• Full of classic Italian flavors
• Pairs beautifully with pasta, salad, or roasted veggies
• Kid-approved and family favorite
• A fun upgrade to traditional chicken parmesan

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded or sliced)
• Fresh basil or baby spinach (optional, for stuffing)
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Eggs (for breading)
• All-purpose flour
• Bread crumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• Olive oil
• Marinara sauce
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Extra mozzarella for topping

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Stuff the pocket with mozzarella and optional basil or spinach. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
5. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts until golden on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer to a baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken, then top with parmesan and mozzarella.
8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
9. Let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks and serve hot with pasta or veggies.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spinach ricotta stuffing: Add a spoonful of ricotta and sautéed spinach to the filling
• Pesto twist: Spread a bit of basil pesto inside the chicken before adding cheese
• Low-carb: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinara or filling
• Air fryer: Cook the breaded chicken in the air fryer, then finish with sauce and cheese in the oven

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
To freeze, wrap cooked stuffed chicken tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Secure the edges well and don’t overfill. Toothpicks help hold the pockets closed.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Boneless thighs can work, but they’re harder to stuff and may need extra cooking time.

What cheese is best for stuffing?

Mozzarella is traditional, but provolone, fontina, or a blend can be used.

Do I need to fry the chicken first?

Yes, pan-searing creates a crispy crust. You can skip it, but the texture won’t be the same.

Can I bake the chicken without sauce?

Yes, bake the breaded stuffed chicken dry, then serve with warmed marinara on the side if preferred.

What sides go well with this?

Spaghetti, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, Caesar salad, or mashed potatoes all pair well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Check with a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be 165°F.

Can I use store-bought marinara?

Absolutely. Choose a high-quality jarred marinara for convenience and flavor.

Conclusion

Stuffed Chicken Parmesan is a comforting, cheesy, and irresistible take on a beloved classic. With its crisp coating, melty mozzarella center, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to an elevated home-cooked meal. Once you try it, it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy chicken parmesan.

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