Cherry Jalapeño Cream Chicken with Melted Mozzarella Center

Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with melty mozzarella and coated in a rich cherry jalapeño cream sauce create the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy. This dish delivers bold flavor with a smooth, comforting texture, making it an impressive yet easy dinner option for family meals or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of sweet cherries and spicy jalapeños creates a perfectly balanced sauce.
• The melted mozzarella center adds a creamy, gooey surprise in every bite.
• It looks elegant but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
• The sauce pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
• It can easily be adjusted to make it milder or spicier.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 to 7 ounces each)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
1 cup cherry preserves
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
3. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with about 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to keep the cheese inside.
5. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic and diced jalapeño for about 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Stir in the cherry preserves and chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring to combine.
8. Add the heavy cream and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top.
10. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
11. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Spoon additional sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for extra spice.
• Replace cherry preserves with raspberry or apricot preserves for a different fruity twist.
• Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for more depth.
• Make it milder by substituting jalapeño with diced green bell pepper.
• Add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a brighter flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the chicken in a covered baking dish and warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing is possible, but the cream sauce may slightly change texture upon thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may cook slightly faster depending on thickness.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure not to cut the pocket all the way through and secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has mild to moderate heat. Removing the jalapeño seeds reduces the spice level significantly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can stuff and sear the chicken ahead of time, then refrigerate. Finish baking just before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of preserves?

Yes, but you will need to cook them down with a little sugar to create a jam-like consistency.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer before adding the chicken back in, or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water.

What if I do not have an oven-safe skillet?

Transfer the sauce and seared chicken to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.

Can I reduce the fat content?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Conclusion

Cherry Jalapeño Cream Chicken with Melted Mozzarella Center is a bold, comforting dish that combines sweet fruitiness, gentle heat, and creamy richness in every bite. With its impressive presentation and balanced flavors, this recipe is perfect for both casual dinners and special gatherings. Once you try it, it is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

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