Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh arugula (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine (for deglazing the pan)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. Sear the chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Prepare the goat cheese mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, a pinch of salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in 1 cup of fresh arugula.
4. Stuff or top the chicken:
- You can either:
- Stuff the chicken: Make a small slit in the side of each chicken breast and carefully stuff with the goat cheese and arugula mixture.
- Top the chicken: Spread a generous layer of the goat cheese mixture on top of each seared chicken breast.
5. Bake the chicken:
- Return the stuffed or topped chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Add chicken broth or white wine to the skillet to deglaze the pan and add moisture to the dish.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
6. Finish and serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
- Garnish with extra fresh arugula for a peppery bite and a bit more lemon zest, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the chicken with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes.
- For a heartier meal, pair it with a side of pasta or rice pilaf.
Tips:
- Goat cheese substitute: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can use cream cheese or feta as a substitute.
- Add extra flavor: You can add sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers to the goat cheese mixture for more flavor complexity.
This Chicken with Goat Cheese and Arugula is a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors that’s sure to impress!