There’s something immensely satisfying about transforming a simple chicken breast into a gourmet delight, and that’s exactly what happens with my Moist Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken! This recipe is one of those wonderful creations I concocted one rainy evening while rummaging through my fridge. I was determined to use what I had on hand, and, lo and behold, this tasty masterpiece emerged! The combination of savory ham, melty Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce wraps around the chicken like a warm hug—pure comfort food bliss!
Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of that cozy night in my kitchen, armed with creativity and a sprinkle of desperation. It’s simple enough for a weekday dinner but fancy enough to impress friends and family. So, if you’re ready to dive into a deliciously satisfying meal that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare but is surprisingly quick and easy, let’s get cooking!
What’s in Moist Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken?
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the star of the show! Using boneless and skinless means it’s easy to prepare and healthier too.
- Ham: I use slices of deli ham, but feel free to get creative! Smoked ham or even prosciutto could add a different flavor profile.
- Swiss cheese: Ah, the melty goodness! Swiss is my go-to, but you could experiment with cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Cream of chicken soup: This creates a rich, creamy sauce. I like to use a can from Campbell’s, but any creamy soup will work well!
- Chicken broth: Enhances the flavor of the sauce. I prefer low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
- Olive oil: A splash in the skillet ensures that the chicken gets that glorious golden brown sear.
- Garlic powder & onion powder: These spices add an extra layer of flavor without any chopping required—my kind of cooking!
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley: Not only does it make for a beautiful garnish, but it adds a nice fresh touch!
Is Moist Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Good for You?
Well, like most comfort foods, this dish has its pros and cons. On the positive side, the chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The ham provides extra flavor and some iron, while the swiss cheese adds calcium for strong bones.
On the flip side, the cream of chicken soup does pack some calories and sodium, so if you’re watching those numbers, keep that in mind—maybe choose a low-sodium version. You can also lighten it up by replacing the creamy soup with a lighter soup or a homemade white sauce. However, it’s all about balance! Enjoying this dish once in a while, paired with fresh veggies or a salad, can fit nicely into a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup (or any creamy soup of your choice)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Moist Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken?
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’ll be nice and hot when we’re ready to bake!
- Prepare the chicken breasts by placing them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Grab a meat mallet or rolling pin and gently pound the chicken until they’re about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t worry; we’re not auditioning for a cooking show here!
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- On each chicken breast, lay 1 slice of ham and 1 slice of cheese. Roll the chicken tightly around the ham and cheese, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and whisk together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth in the skillet to create a luscious sauce.
- Return the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and generously spoon some of the sauce over them.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carefully removing the toothpicks.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, drizzling the creamy sauce over the chicken.
Tips for Ultimate Stuffed Chicken Perfection
- Make sure you pound the chicken evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly.
- If you want to add a twist, try spinach or roasted red peppers in the filling!
- Pair this dish with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal.
- You can also experiment with different cheese and deli meat combinations to suit your taste.
Trust me, this Moist Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken will become a cherished recipe in your cooking repertoire. It’s comforting, delectable, and will leave everyone wanting seconds! So, roll up those sleeves, give it a try, and let me know how it goes—happy cooking!
