Description
Chicken Stuffed with Pears and Cheese is an elegant yet comforting dish featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with sweet sautéed pears and creamy cheese, baked to golden perfection. It’s sweet, savory, and perfect for fall dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- For the Filling:
- 1 large ripe pear, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, Gruyère, or fontina
- 2 oz goat cheese or cream cheese (optional for creaminess)
- For the Glaze (optional):
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut a pocket in each chicken breast without cutting through. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Make the Filling: In a skillet, melt butter. Add pear slices, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Sauté 3–4 minutes until softened. Remove from heat.
- Stuff the Chicken: Fill each chicken breast with sautéed pears, shredded cheese, and goat/cream cheese if using. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Sear: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet. Sear chicken on both sides until lightly golden, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Add Glaze (optional): Whisk honey, Dijon, and apple cider vinegar and brush over chicken.
- Bake: Transfer skillet to the oven and bake 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Spoon pan juices over the chicken and garnish with fresh thyme.
Notes
- Gruyère or fontina gives the best melt and flavor.
- Pears can be swapped for apples for a different sweetness.
- Add spinach to the filling for color and extra nutrients.
- Great served with rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sear & Bake
- Cuisine: American