Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

Step 1

Preheat oven to 425F degrees. Place a cast iron skillet or heavy duty oven safe skillet over medium high heat.

Step 2

In a small bowl, mash goat cheese with a fork until smooth. Stir in pepperoncini and thyme and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3

Use a paring knife to cut a slit in the thick side of each chicken breast. Create a pocket carefully using your fingers or the knife making sure to not cut through the back of the breast. Stuff each pocket with about 2 tablespoons of the goat cheese mixture.

Step 4

Divide goat cheese mixture evenly between each of the chicken breasts and press into the pockets. Pat the chicken dry on all sides and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5

Place chicken breasts skin side down in the heated skillet and cook for about 5 minutes. Carefully transfer the hot skillet to the preheated oven and bake until chicken is cooked through, about 18 to 20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Step 6

Remove the skillet from the oven and carefully, using tongs, flip the chicken breasts over in skillet and let rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Step 7

Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.