If you’re looking for a delicious and impressive dish to elevate your weeknight dinner or weekend gathering, look no further than this delightful recipe for Ham and Cherry Stuffed Chicken. This dish pairs tender and juicy chicken breasts with a flavorful stuffing featuring the sweet and tart combination of cherries and the comforting saltiness of ham. The result is a dish that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with a blend of savory and sweet flavors that will have your guests asking for seconds.
Ham and Cherry Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup chopped ham
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham, dried cherries, breadcrumbs, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. This will be the flavorful stuffing for your chicken breasts.
3. Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally along one side, taking care not to cut all the way through. Open the chicken breast like a book to create a larger surface area.
4. Season the inside of each butterflied chicken breast with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon a generous amount of the ham and cherry stuffing mixture onto one half of each chicken breast, keeping it towards the center. Be sure not to overfill to avoid the filling spilling out during baking.
6. Carefully fold the other half of the chicken breast over the stuffing to close it. Secure the stuffed chicken breast with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold everything in place while cooking.
7. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each chicken breast to help them brown nicely in the oven.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
9. Once cooked, remove the toothpicks or twine from the chicken breasts before serving to avoid any accidents.
Serve your succulent Ham and Cherry Stuffed Chicken alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. This dish is sure to wow your family and friends with its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors. Enjoy the delightful blend of savory ham, sweet cherries, and juicy chicken in every bite. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your loved ones with a home-cooked meal that feels like a gourmet treat.
