Quick Overview
If you are looking for a delectable dish that combines spice and creaminess, look no further than this Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn. This delightful recipe features succulent chicken breasts filled with a cheesy jalapeno mixture and served alongside smooth creamed corn. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to create this mouth-watering meal!
Ingredient Breakdown
Chicken Breasts
You will need four boneless, skinless chicken breasts weighing about 1.5 pounds in total. This lean protein serves as a perfect canvas for the cheesy filling while keeping the dish healthy.
Cream Cheese
Use 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened to room temperature. This ingredient provides creaminess and helps bind the filling together, making each bite rich and flavorful.
Shredded Cheese
Opt for 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. The sharpness of cheddar complements the spicy jalapenos while adding a beautiful melty texture to the stuffing.
Jalapenos
Include 2 fresh jalapenos, finely chopped. These peppers add a burst of flavor and just the right amount of heat to your stuffed chicken.
Garlic Powder
Measure out 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. This seasoning enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
Salt & Pepper
Use ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. These basic seasonings bring out the natural flavors in both the chicken and stuffing.
Corn Kernels
For serving, have 1 cup of sweet corn kernels ready (fresh or frozen). The sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with the spicy filling and adds a pleasant crunch.
Heavy Cream
Prepare ½ cup of heavy cream to create a luxurious creamed corn sauce that elevates your dish’s texture and richness.
Step By Step Recipe: Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn
Prepare the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, take each chicken breast and carefully slice it horizontally to create a pocket for stuffing. Avoid cutting all the way through to ensure you keep them intact.
Make the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapenos, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a creamy filling.
Stuff the Chicken
Take each prepared chicken breast and generously fill it with your cheese mixture using a spoon or spatula. Secure each opening with toothpicks if necessary to prevent spilling during cooking; this step is crucial for keeping all that delicious filling inside!
Bake the Chicken
Place your stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown on top.
Prepare Creamed Corn Sauce
While the chicken bakes, prepare your creamed corn sauce by heating heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Once warmed through, stir in sweet corn kernels along with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently until heated thoroughly for about 5-7 minutes.
Serve Your Dish
Once your Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about five minutes before slicing into it. Serve each portion alongside generous spoonfuls of creamy corn sauce drizzled over top for added flavor!
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken hot from the oven along with your creamed corn sauce on the side. Pair this dish with fresh salad greens or roasted vegetables to balance out flavors while adding color to your plate!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers after enjoying this delicious meal, allow them to cool completely before transferring them into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage if you want to save some tasty meals for later!
This recipe not only satisfies cravings but also adds excitement to weeknight dinners! Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn is sure to become a favorite!
Mistakes to avoid
When making Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn, avoid overstuffing the chicken. If you cram too much filling inside, the chicken may not cook evenly. It can lead to undercooked meat and excessive leaking of the filling during cooking. Use just enough mixture to fill the chicken without overflowing.
Another common mistake is not properly seasoning the chicken. Plain chicken can taste bland, so make sure to season both the outside and inside of the chicken before cooking. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances flavors significantly, making each bite more enjoyable.
Don’t forget to let the stuffed chicken rest after cooking. Cutting into it too soon can result in a loss of juices, leaving your dish dry. Allow it to rest for about five minutes before slicing. This small step makes a big difference in maintaining moisture.
Avoid using low-quality cheese for stuffing your chicken. While it may save you some money, cheap cheese often lacks flavor and quality. Opt for fresh cheese that melts well, like cream cheese or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella, which will enhance the overall taste of your dish.
Lastly, don’t skip the creamed corn side dish if you want to serve this meal properly. The creamy texture of the corn complements the spicy stuffed chicken beautifully. Leaving it out will miss an opportunity for a well-rounded plate.
Tips and tricks
To achieve juicy Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn, consider brining your chicken before cooking. Soaking it in a simple saltwater solution helps retain moisture during cooking and enhances flavor throughout. A mixture of water, salt, and optional herbs can work wonders if soaked for about 30 minutes.
Be mindful of your cooking temperature as well. Searing the chicken on high heat initially allows for a beautiful golden crust while sealing in juices. Follow this by reducing heat to ensure thorough cooking without burning the outside layer. A meat thermometer can help you check that internal temperatures reach 165°F for safety.
When preparing your creamed corn, consider using fresh or frozen corn instead of canned varieties for a fresher taste and better texture. If you choose frozen corn, thaw it beforehand for even cooking. Adding spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper can also give your creamed corn an extra kick that pairs nicely with the stuffed chicken.
Experiment with different types of cheeses in your stuffing mixture to find combinations that suit your tastes best. Cream cheese provides a smooth texture while adding sharp cheddar boosts flavor intensity. Mixing in pepper jack can also add some spice if you are looking for an extra kick.
Finally, presentation matters! Serve your Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken alongside a generous scoop of creamed corn on a colorful plate garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This not only makes your meal visually appealing but also enhances dining experience by making it feel special.
Suggestions for Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn
For an interesting twist on Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn, consider adding chopped spinach or kale into your stuffing mixture. These greens provide added nutrients and color while balancing out spiciness from jalapenos. Additionally, they enhance flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
If you’re hosting guests or family gatherings, think about serving this dish alongside a refreshing salad made with avocado and citrus dressing. The lightness of salad complements the rich flavors from both the stuffed chicken and creamed corn perfectly.
For those who prefer milder flavors but still want some creaminess in their meal, swap jalapenos for diced bell peppers in the stuffing mix. Bell peppers offer sweetness without overwhelming heat while maintaining great texture when baked alongside chicken.
Consider pairing this dish with baked potatoes topped with sour cream or chives instead of traditional rice sides. Baked potatoes add heartiness while their neutral flavor balances out intense notes from cheesy stuffed chicken.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to prepare extra portions! Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken freezes beautifully after cooking—just ensure it’s wrapped tightly in foil or stored in airtight containers to preserve freshness until you’re ready to enjoy leftovers later on.
FAQs
What is Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn?
Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn is a delicious dish featuring boneless chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of cheese and jalapenos baked until golden brown and tender. It’s often paired with a rich creamed corn side dish that enhances its flavor profile and provides complementary textures on the plate.
How do I prevent my stuffed chicken from drying out?
To prevent drying out your stuffed chicken during baking, ensure you brine it before cooking for added moisture retention. Cooking at moderate temperatures rather than high heat also helps maintain juiciness inside while allowing outer skin to crisp up nicely without overcooking interior meat.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken breast, other meats like turkey breasts or pork chops can be used as alternatives depending on personal preference or dietary restrictions. Just make sure that whichever meat you choose is cooked thoroughly before serving to ensure food safety.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level primarily depends on how much jalapeno is included in the stuffing mix; using fewer peppers will yield milder results compared to recipes calling for larger quantities or hotter varieties like serrano peppers instead! Adjust according to taste preferences by adding more or less accordingly!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! To prepare ahead, stuff and sear your chickens then store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake later that day or follow through freezing leftover portions after baking accordingly based on individual needs!
What can I serve alongside Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken?
Serving suggestions include pairing dishes such as roasted vegetables, quinoa salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette dressing—or classic mashed potatoes—to create well-rounded meals that harmonize flavors perfectly while providing variety across plates!
Summary
Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn offers delightful flavors when prepared correctly. Remember common mistakes such as overstuffing and skipping seasoning must be avoided for best results! Employ tips like brining and adjusting spice levels tailored toward personal preferences throughout preparation stages—ensuring optimal enjoyment during mealtime experiences!
Print
Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken with Creamed Corn
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of cheese and spicy jalapenos, served alongside creamy corn for a perfect meal.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2-3 jalapenos, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with the cheese mixture.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes per side).
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add corn kernels and sauté for about 3-4 minutes.
7. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes until slightly thickened; season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve the cheesy jalapeno stuffed chicken with a side of creamed corn.
Notes
This dish can be adjusted for spice by adding more or fewer jalapenos based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast with creamed corn
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 35g
Keywords: chicken, stuffed chicken, cheesy jalapeno, creamed corn