Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken - Romantic Valentine Dinner

Introduction

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic chicken cordon bleu, which traditionally consists of chicken breast stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese. By using cheddar cheese and cornflake crumbs, this recipe adds a crunchy texture and a rich, cheesy flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

References

1. ↑ substitute 1 tsp garlic salt
2. ↑ To make ahead: Prepare the chicken as directed above. Wrap each serving in plastic food wrap. Place in a resealable plastic freezer bag; Freeze. Thaw. Bake as directed above.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to secure the cheese inside the chicken breast with toothpicks to prevent it from melting out during cooking.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

- For extra flavor, you can add herbs or spices to the crumb mixture before coating the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chicken in the oven ensures that it cooks evenly and retains its moisture, while the cornflake crumbs become crispy and golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cornflake crumbs, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. Just make sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken with fresh herbs or a drizzle of sauce for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and egg) and gluten (cornflake crumbs).

Summary

Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. However, it is high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for a romantic Valentine's Day dinner. With its cheesy filling and crispy coating, it is sure to impress your loved one and make your evening memorable.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken - Romantic Valentine Dinner. It was a cold February evening, just a few days before Valentine's Day. I was rummaging through my old recipe box, searching for inspiration for a special dinner to make for my husband, Jack. We had been married for over 50 years, but I still loved to surprise him with new and delicious dishes.

As I flipped through the cards, my eyes landed on a faded, yellowed piece of paper tucked in the back of the box. The writing was barely legible, but I could make out the words "Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken." Intrigued, I carefully unfolded the paper and began to read the recipe.

The instructions were simple enough: start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, flatten them out, then stuff them with a mixture of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and herbs. Dip the stuffed chicken breasts in egg wash, then coat them in a crunchy mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Bake in the oven until golden brown and crispy, then serve with a side of roasted vegetables and a glass of wine.

I was immediately drawn to the idea of making this dish for Jack as a special Valentine's Day dinner. The combination of gooey cheese, crunchy coating, and tender chicken seemed like the perfect way to show him how much I loved and appreciated him.

But as I read through the recipe, I realized that I didn't have all the ingredients on hand. Determined to make this dinner a reality, I set out the next day to gather everything I needed. I visited the local farmer's market for fresh herbs, stopped by the butcher for the chicken breasts, and picked up the cheeses and breadcrumbs from the grocery store.

When I returned home, I set to work preparing the dish. I carefully sliced open the chicken breasts and pounded them out to an even thickness. In a bowl, I mixed together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and herbs, creating a creamy and flavorful filling. I stuffed the chicken breasts with the mixture, then dipped them in the egg wash and coated them in the breadcrumb and parmesan mixture.

As I placed the stuffed chicken breasts in the oven to bake, the kitchen filled with the warm and comforting aroma of herbs and cheese. I set the table with our best dishes and lit a few candles for a romantic touch.

When Jack walked through the door that evening, he was greeted with the tantalizing scent of the Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken. His eyes lit up with surprise and delight as he took in the beautifully set table and the steaming dish in front of him.

We sat down together to enjoy the meal, savoring each bite of the cheesy, crunchy chicken. Jack couldn't stop raving about how delicious it was, and I felt a swell of pride knowing that I had created something so special for him.

As we finished our meal, Jack reached across the table and took my hand in his. "Thank you, my love," he said, his eyes filled with gratitude. "This dinner was truly a labor of love, and I appreciate it more than words can express."

Tears welled up in my eyes as I looked into his, feeling overwhelmed with love and happiness. In that moment, I knew that this recipe for Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken would always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and joy that cooking and sharing a meal together can bring.

And so, I continue to make this dish for Jack every Valentine's Day, a tradition that we both cherish and look forward to each year. The Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken has become more than just a recipe - it's a symbol of our enduring love and commitment to each other, a reminder of the special bond we share.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day when I first discovered this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the joy and happiness it has brought into our lives. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my love and creativity, and this dish is a shining example of that.

So here's to many more years of cooking, sharing meals, and creating memories together. And here's to the Crunchy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken - a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart.

Categories

| Cheddar Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Main Dish Poultry Recipes | Valentine's Day Suppers | World Recipes |

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