Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes, the creamy tanginess of goat cheese, and the succulent taste of chicken. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between savory and sweet, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious homemade meal, this dish is sure to impress both your family and guests.
The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese adds depth and complexity to the chicken, while the balsamic vinegar and fresh basil bring a refreshing burst of flavor. The chicken breast is stuffed with a delectable mixture of shallots, garlic, cheese, and herbs, creating a moist and tender texture. With the addition of a flavorful pan sauce made from the chicken broth and remaining ingredients, this dish becomes even more irresistible.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1/3 C sun-dried tomatoes, packed without oil, finely chopped
- 2 tsp. olive oil, divided
- 1/2 C chopped shallots, divided
- 1 tsp. Splenda
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 1/2 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar, divided
- 1/2 C (2 oz.) crumbled goat cheese – to cut down on the fat, find the lowest-fat variety
- 2 Tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 3/4 tsp. salt, divided
- 4 (6-oz) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 3/4 C fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 tsp. dried thyme
PREPARATIONS:
- Heat 1 tsp. oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1/3 cup shallots, Splenda, and garlic.
- Cook for 4 minutes or until golden brown, stirring often.
- Spoon the mixture into a mixing bowl and stir in 1 1/2 tsp. vinegar.
- Incorporate chopped tomatoes, shallot mixture, cheese, basil, and 1/4 tsp. salt together and mix well.
- Cut a horizontal slit through each chicken breast half.
- Stuff 2 Tbsps. cheese mixture into each newly formed pocket.
- Season with 1/2 tsp. salt and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tsp. oil in a pan over medium-high heat and add the stuffed chicken.
- Cook for approximately 6 minutes on each side or until the juices run clear.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and add broth, remaining shallots, 2 Tbsps. vinegar, and thyme.
- Bring to a boil and stir until thickened.
- Serve the sauce over the cooked chicken.
YIELD: 4 servings
IMPORTANT POINTS:
- Be sure to use sun-dried tomatoes that are packed without oil to prevent excess greasiness in the dish.
- Crumble the goat cheese finely to ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout the chicken.
- Make a deep enough slit in the chicken breast to accommodate the stuffing, but be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.
- Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
TIPS:
- For a healthier option, choose the lowest-fat variety of goat cheese available.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes before stuffing them.
- Serve the Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
In conclusion, Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Chicken is a delightful and mouthwatering dish that brings together the unique flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, tangy goat cheese, and tender chicken. The combination of ingredients creates a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and creamy notes that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
The recipe is relatively easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and simple cooking techniques. The stuffing made from sun-dried tomatoes, shallots, garlic, cheese, and herbs adds a burst of flavor to the chicken breasts, while the balsamic vinegar and fresh basil elevate the dish with their vibrant and aromatic characteristics. The pan sauce made from the chicken broth, shallots, vinegar, and thyme creates a luscious and savory accompaniment that brings everything together.
When serving this dish, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to complement the flavors and add some vibrant colors to your plate. The leftovers can be enjoyed the next day, either reheated gently in the oven or microwaved for a quick and satisfying meal.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Chicken is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for a casual weeknight dinner or served as an impressive dish for special occasions. Its combination of flavors and textures will surely impress your family, friends, or guests.
Give this recipe a try and indulge in the tantalizing flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese, and succulent chicken. You won’t be disappointed!
