Description
Deliciously juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy blend of avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh cilantro. This recipe combines searing and baking in a cast iron skillet to lock in flavors and create a perfect balance of textures, making it a quick and flavorful meal option.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 large chicken breasts
- All Purpose Seasoning Blend (see notes)
- 1 to 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Stuffing
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup sun dried tomato strips in oil, drained and diced
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it's hot enough for baking the chicken after searing.
- Prepare Chicken Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Season both sides of each breast generously with your All Purpose Seasoning Blend to add flavor throughout.
- Make the Stuffing: In a small bowl, combine the diced avocado, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cilantro, and salt. Mix gently to blend the ingredients without mashing the avocado.
- Stuff Chicken: Divide the avocado mixture evenly and stuff it into each chicken breast pocket. If needed, secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside during cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a large cast iron or oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Bake: Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and keep the chicken covered for 5 minutes to allow carryover cooking and juices to redistribute. Remove toothpicks, slice if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- All Purpose Seasoning Blend typically includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of at least 155°F; it will continue to cook during resting to reach 165°F safely.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to avoid transferring the chicken to another dish.
- You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes packed in water or dry packed, but adjust oil accordingly.
- For a dairy-free and gluten-free meal option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Entrée
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
