Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Name: Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium chicken breast; 2-3 slices fresh tomato; 2 slices mozzarella cheese; 1 tsp paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 cup cucumber slices; 1 cup chopped lettuce; 1 tsp lemon juice

Published: November 24, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful meal ready in no time.
Flavorful Filling: The combination of tomatoes and cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and filling.
Versatile Salad: The cucumber-tomato salad adds a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the stuffed chicken.
Single Serving: Ideal for solo diners or those looking for portion control without compromising on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A quality skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken, resulting in a perfectly golden crust.
Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to cut pocket openings in the chicken and slice vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 medium chicken breast
2-3 slices fresh tomato (plus extra for the salad)
2 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Salad

1 cup cucumber slices
1 cup chopped lettuce
1 tsp lemon juice or light vinaigrette

How to Make Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, cut a pocket in the chicken breast. Then stuff it with tomato slices and cheese. Season the outside liberally with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breast to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until it is golden brown and thoroughly cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad

In a mixing bowl, combine cucumber slices, chopped lettuce, and additional tomato slices. Toss everything together with lemon juice or your choice of light vinaigrette.

Step 4: Serve

Plate your stuffed chicken alongside the fresh salad. Enjoy your warm meal!

How to Serve Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Serving your Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad is as important as preparing it. Presenting the dish nicely can enhance the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Plating Suggestions

Use a white plate: A simple, clean white plate creates a great contrast with the vibrant colors of the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped basil or parsley can add freshness and visual appeal.

Accompaniments

Add a slice of lemon: A wedge of lemon on the side not only looks appealing but adds a zesty touch when squeezed over the chicken.
Serve with crusty bread: Provide slices of crusty bread for dipping into any juices or sauces.

Presentation Tips

Arrange the salad artfully: Layer cucumber, lettuce, and tomato in a visually pleasing manner beside the chicken.
Drizzle olive oil on the salad: A light drizzle can enhance flavor and appearance.

How to Perfect Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail during preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure delicious results every time.

Choose fresh ingredients: Opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh greens to maximize flavor and texture.
Evenly cut chicken breast: Ensure that the pocket is deep enough for stuffing but not too wide to prevent spillage during cooking.
Monitor cooking time closely: Check for doneness at 5 minutes per side to avoid overcooking while ensuring it’s cooked through.
Experiment with cheese varieties: Try different melting cheeses like gouda or cheddar for varied flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Pairing your main dish with complementary sides can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options that will enhance your dining experience.

Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs make a hearty side that contrasts well with the fresh salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain dish offers protein and pairs perfectly with chicken, adding texture and flavor.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides color and nutrients, balancing out the rich flavors of the stuffed chicken.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with fresh herbs brings a fragrant element that complements the main dish beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil add an elegant touch and earthy flavors.
Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted peppers provide a burst of color and sweetness, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

Boldly cutting too deep: When creating a pocket in the chicken breast, avoid cutting all the way through. This ensures the filling stays intact during cooking.
Boldly overfilling the pocket: Adding too much cheese or tomato can cause the filling to spill out. Use just enough to fill without overflowing for easier cooking and serving.
Boldly neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavor. Always season both inside and outside of the chicken for a delicious result.
Boldly skipping resting time: Cutting into chicken right after cooking can lead to dry meat. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
Boldly rushing the salad prep: Preparing the salad while the chicken cooks is fine, but do not chop vegetables too small or they may become mushy. Aim for uniform sizes for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking tray and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water and cover. Steam chicken for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use other types of cheese in Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella or provolone with cheeses like cheddar or feta, depending on your taste preference.

How do I know when my stuffed chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is helpful for accurate checking.

Can I customize the salad that comes with Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and flavor.

How long does it take to make Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad?

The total time is around 22 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The stuffed chicken holds up well in both refrigerated and frozen storage, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cucumber-Tomato Salad is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or swapping ingredients based on what you have at home. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation!

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