Garlic Butter Mushroom Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Protein

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

→ Dairy

02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded

→ Vegetables & Herbs

04 - 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Oils & Condiments

07 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - ½ teaspoon dried thyme
10 - ½ teaspoon paprika
11 - ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
12 - Salt, to taste
13 - Black pepper, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - Melt 2 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until browned and tender, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
03 - Slice each chicken breast horizontally almost through to create a pocket. Season inside and out with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
04 - Fill each chicken breast with the cooled mushroom mixture and top with mozzarella cheese. Fold and seal the edges using toothpicks or kitchen twine.
05 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each stuffed breast seam-side up for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
06 - Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Meanwhile, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon juice if desired.
07 - Remove toothpicks or twine from chicken. Plate the breasts and drizzle with garlic butter sauce. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Butterfly chicken carefully to avoid cutting through completely. Let mushroom filling cool before stuffing to prevent premature cheese melting.
02 - Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
03 - For added richness, incorporate a splash of white wine into the garlic butter sauce during simmering.