Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Stuffing a chicken breast is simple, adds flavor, and variety to a diet heavy with chicken. This recipe is for only one chicken breast, but multiples of the stuffing can be made to accommodate any number of breasts. In fact, it is easier to make more than just one amount.

1 skinless, boneless half chicken breast

Olive oil for brushing

Salt or Creole Seasoned Salt

Fresh ground black pepper

Prepare the stuffing (recipe follows). Insert a sharp knife almost all the way through the side of the thick end of the breast. Slice toward the thin end to form a pocket. Using a teaspoon insert stuffing into the pocket.

Use toothpicks to hold the pocket full of stuffing closed.

Prepare the grill for hot direct cooking. Brush the chicken with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 4 minutes per side, lid closed, turn and grill for an additional 2 minutes on the first side.

Stuffing

2 teaspoons olive oil

1/2 small clove garlic, minced

2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese

Sauté the garlic in a small pan over low heat until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Add the

basil and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature, then stir in the cheese.