Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins you can cook with, and when you want something that’s both comforting and impressive, stuffed chicken fillets are a winning choice. This recipe takes two juicy chicken fillets, fills them with a savory mushroom, onion, and cheese mixture, coats them in a crispy breadcrumb crust, and pan-fries them until golden and irresistible. To make the meal complete, we’re pairing it with a buttery vegetable rice, studded with red onion, carrot, bell pepper, and fresh parsley. The result is a hearty, balanced dish that feels fancy enough for dinner guests but simple enough to enjoy as a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
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2 chicken fillets
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2 eggs (for seasoning)
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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100 g cheese (shredded)
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1 tbsp mayonnaise
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
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Butter (for frying)
For the filling:
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1 onion, finely chopped
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Mushrooms (about 1 cup, sliced)
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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150 g cheese (shredded)
For the coating:
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3 tbsp flour
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3 eggs (whisked)
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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Vegetable oil, for frying
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Butter, for frying
For the vegetable rice:
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1 cup rice
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
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1 tbsp butter
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1 red onion, finely diced
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1 carrot, finely diced
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1 bell pepper, diced
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped
Cooking Directions
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Prepare the chicken fillets by seasoning them with salt and black pepper on both sides. Lightly beat 2 eggs and coat the chicken with the mixture.
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In a skillet, heat a little vegetable oil and butter. Fry the chicken briefly on both sides until lightly golden, then remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes until tender. Season with salt and black pepper.
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Stir in 150 g shredded cheese and 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, mixing until creamy. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
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Slice open each chicken fillet carefully to create a pocket. Stuff generously with the mushroom-cheese mixture.
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Prepare the breading station: place flour on one plate, whisk 3 eggs in a bowl, and spread breadcrumbs on another plate.
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Dredge each stuffed chicken fillet in flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press lightly to make sure the coating sticks.
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Heat vegetable oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Lower heat and cook through if needed.
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For the rice, rinse 1 cup of rice and set aside. In a saucepan, heat vegetable oil and butter, then sauté red onion until soft. Add carrot and bell pepper and cook for 3–4 minutes.
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Add the rice and stir to coat with the vegetables. Season with salt and black pepper, then pour in water according to package instructions. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer until the rice is fluffy.
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Fluff with a fork and stir in fresh parsley.
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Serve the crispy stuffed chicken fillets alongside the vegetable rice.
Nutrients (per serving, serves 4)
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Calories: ~590
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Protein: 38 g
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Carbohydrates: 48 g
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Fat: 23 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Sodium: ~770 mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy coating on the outside gives you that satisfying crunch, while the inside stays juicy and packed with creamy, savory mushroom-cheese filling. Pairing it with the buttery vegetable rice makes it feel like a complete meal that’s both filling and colorful. It’s a dish that will appeal to both kids and adults alike—it’s indulgent without being overly complicated.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Stuffed chicken has roots in many cuisines, from French cordon bleu to Italian involtini. This version draws inspiration from Eastern European and Mediterranean kitchens, where mushrooms, onions, and cheese are common stuffing ingredients. Combining this rustic filling with a crisp breadcrumb crust adds a modern twist while keeping it grounded in classic home cooking traditions. The vegetable rice on the side is a simple way to make the dish more balanced and nutritious.
Ingredient Spotlight
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Chicken Fillet: Lean and versatile, chicken fillet is ideal for stuffing.
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Mushrooms: Add earthy umami flavor and pair beautifully with cheese.
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Cheese: A mix of melty cheese ensures a gooey center—Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar can all work.
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Breadcrumbs: Create the crispy, golden coating that makes this dish irresistible.
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Rice and Vegetables: Transform plain rice into a colorful, nutritious side.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the crust crispy—avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy. The rice can be reheated in a pan with a splash of water or butter to restore moisture. Freezing is possible, but best done before frying the breaded chicken; fry fresh after thawing for the best texture.
Common Variations to Try
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Cheese Options: Try gouda, brie, or blue cheese for a more gourmet flavor.
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Vegetable Swap: Replace mushrooms with spinach or roasted red peppers.
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Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or jalapeños to the filling.
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Whole-Grain Twist: Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.
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Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the chicken. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay or a light beer works beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic, sparkling water with lime or fresh lemonade makes a refreshing match.
Health Benefits
Despite being indulgent, this dish offers nutritional value. Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair. Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins and antioxidants, while vegetables in the rice contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Cheese and eggs provide calcium and healthy fats in moderation. By balancing indulgent ingredients with wholesome sides, this dish manages to be both comforting and nourishing.
Conclusion
Crispy stuffed chicken fillets with mushroom-cheese filling and vegetable rice is the kind of recipe that brings excitement back to the dinner table. It’s hearty, golden, and satisfying, yet not overly complicated to prepare. The combination of textures—the crunch of the breading, the creaminess of the filling, and the fluffiness of the rice—ensures that every bite feels complete. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.