Save It Juicy chicken breasts filled with a vibrant blend of sweet grilled corn, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil pesto, then grilled to perfection for a flavorful, summery main course.
This recipe is a family favorite that brings summer flavors to the dinner table with juicy chicken and fresh, vibrant filling.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Filling: 1 cup grilled corn kernels (from 2 ears of corn or frozen, thawed), ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade), 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Garnish (optional): Fresh basil leaves, Additional pesto for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
- Butterfly chicken:
- Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through, and open like a book.
- Season chicken:
- Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Prepare filling:
- In a bowl, combine grilled corn, mozzarella, basil pesto, and Parmesan. Mix well.
- Stuff chicken:
- Spoon the filling evenly into each chicken breast, then fold closed. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Grill chicken:
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for 6–8 minutes per side, with the lid closed, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted.
- Rest and serve:
- Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and slicing. Serve with fresh basil and a drizzle of extra pesto, if desired.
Save It Our family loves this recipe for weekend cookouts, making the meal as much about the time together as the delicious food.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light summer salad to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
Variations
Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a flavorful twist or bake the stuffed chicken breasts in the oven for a no-grill alternative.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well in a skillet or microwave.
Save It This dish combines fresh ingredients with simple techniques for an impressive and delicious dinner.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What is the best method to grill the stuffed chicken breasts?
Grill the stuffed breasts over medium-high heat with the lid closed, cooking 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked and cheese melts.
- → Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the grilled corn and cheese mixture can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until ready to stuff the chicken.
- → Is there an alternative to fresh basil pesto?
Sun-dried tomato pesto offers a flavorful twist while maintaining a vibrant taste contrast in the filling.
- → How to ensure the chicken breasts stay securely stuffed during cooking?
Use toothpicks to hold the stuffed breasts closed, preventing the filling from spilling out on the grill.
- → Can the stuffed chicken be baked instead of grilled?
Yes, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.