Ina Garten Chicken Goat Cheese Basil Recipe
If you love simple, flavorful meals, this Ina Garten Chicken Goat Cheese Basil Recipe is perfect. Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with creamy goat cheese and fresh basil, creating a delicious and elegant dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz goat cheese softened
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Preheat Oven
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil or cooking spray.
Prepare Chicken
- Pat chicken breasts dry. Slice a pocket in the center of each breast carefully without cutting all the way through.
Mix Filling
- In a small bowl, combine goat cheese and chopped basil. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed.
Stuff Chicken
- Fill each chicken breast pocket with goat cheese and basil mixture. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Season Chicken
- Brush chicken with olive oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder and paprika evenly on both sides.
Bake Chicken
- Place chicken in the prepared baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Chicken should reach 165°F inside.
Rest and Serve
- Remove chicken from oven. Let rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overstuff chicken to avoid splitting.
- Pat chicken dry for better browning.
- Let chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.