An Engaging Introduction to Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil
I’ve recently been on a quest to reinvent our dinner routines, and chicken has taken center stage! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful recipe for Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil. This dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. But first, let’s talk a bit about what “Hasselback” means.
The term “Hasselback” originated with potatoes, where you make accordion-like slits across the potato, filling them with delicious ingredients like bacon and cheese. Now, this technique has expanded beyond potatoes to include apples, sweet potatoes, and yes, even chicken! Although I haven’t tried Hasselback potatoes myself yet, they are definitely on my list. I’m sure my son will love them, especially with plenty of bacon!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hasselback Chicken is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. You’ll love how the mozzarella melts into creamy perfection, while the tomatoes add a burst of freshness, and the basil infuses the dish with its signature aroma. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s a list of handy kitchen tools to help you prepare this dish with ease:
- Cutting Board: I recommend plastic ones which can be easily sterilized after use.
- Knife Set: A sharp knife is essential for creating clean, even slits in the chicken.
- Rectangle Baking Dish: Choose one that’s attractive enough to serve from at the table!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Sliced mozzarella cheese
- Grape tomatoes, sliced in half
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and Pepper
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut slits across each chicken breast about 3/4 of the way through, being careful not to slice all the way through. Aim for 6 to 8 slits per breast, depending on their size.
- Stuff each slit with a slice of mozzarella cheese, half a grape tomato, and a basil leaf.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish coated with non-stick spray.
- Brush each chicken breast with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tips for Success
For the best results, use fresh ingredients and make sure your mozzarella cheese is sliced thinly enough to fit neatly into the slits. Keeping consistent spacing between slits will help the chicken cook evenly.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like provolone or cheddar, for a new flavor profile. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or substitute cherry tomatoes for grape tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious! It’s high in protein from the chicken and mozzarella and contains healthy fats from the olive oil. The tomatoes and basil add vitamins and antioxidants, making it a balanced meal choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Q: What sides go well with this dish?
A: A side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement this chicken dish beautifully.
Conclusion
I hope this recipe for Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil finds its way to your dinner table soon. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that’s sure to become a favorite. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your experience and any creative twists you added!