How to Stuff a Chicken Breast

Stuffing a chicken breast is one of those things that most people leave up to the restaurant professionals, but don't be scared! You can do it. I prepared a video for you to watch a few times so you can see how it's done and get the hang of it. Do not be intimidated, and if you don't get it right the first time or two, don't sweat it. Just cook off your chicken breasts plain and serve whatever you were gonna stuff them with to the side! Just don't give up! This is a technique that is pretty easy to master, and it really does impress the hell outta everyone you serve this to. Here is the recipe I am using today:

Broccoli and Parmesan stuffed Chicken Breasts
1-2 cups very small broccoli florets
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
salt and pepper to taste
2-4 boneless chicken breasts (about 6oz. each)
Olive oil for cooking

Steam or par-boil your broccoli for a minute or two JUST until it turns bright green. Rinse under very cold water to stop the internal cooking. Shake out the florets to dry them a bit and place them into a large bowl. Toss with the Parmesan cheese, and a little salt and pepper. Set aside...

Place one chicken breast on a clean, dry cutting board. Insert a paring knife into the thickest part of the breast and slowly slide the knife horizontally through the breast, stopping before you come out the other end. With a fan motion, cut a pocket in the chicken, being very careful not to poke any holes through it. Stuff your chicken with the stuffing of your choice, I used the above broccoli mix.

Heat a skillet over high heat. Add about 2 Tbs. olive oil, and wait for it to "shimmer". Place the chicken-smooth side down-into the hot skillet. Turn the heat to Medium high, and allow the chicken to cook UNDISTURBED for 6 minutes. Flip the breasts over, and cook an additional 6 minutes.

Remove them from the skillet and allow them to rest, covered with foil, for about 5 minutes.

I like to serve this with the chicken sliced thinly,so your family and guests can see the stuffing, and properly praise you for your mad cooking skills.  Place you chicken over pasta tossed in a little pesto sauce, or a nice salad, or steamed rice- it's totally up to your likes and imagination.