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Pear, Pecan & Blue Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts

pear blue cheese and pecan stuffed chicken breasts

Ingredients 

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 Bartlett pear thinly sliced
  • 2/3 cup blue cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup candied or roasted pecans roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • Salt for dry brining
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh thyme optional, for garnish

Directions 

  • Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt on both sides.
  • Let the chicken rest for 15-20 minutes to dry brine as you prep the rest of your ingredients.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut through completely.
  • Place a few pear slices, about 2-3 tablespoons of blue cheese, and a sprinkle of the chopped candied or roasted pecans inside each chicken breast. Top with some balsamic vinegar or glaze.
  • Close the chicken breasts and secure them with toothpicks if needed.
  • Season the outside of the chicken with a pinch of salt black pepper.
  • Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish, drizzle melted butter over them.
  • Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
  • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. To store, let them rapidly cool in the freezer for 15-20 minutes, then wrap in foil and store in the fridge until ready to reheat.
  • When serving, reheat until warm throughout. Slice and top with more balsamic, fresh thyme and additional pecans, and black pepper if desired.