FOOD NEWS
A Seasoned Cream Cheese Stuffing Elevates Chicken Valentino
BY AUSTIN HAVENS-BOWEN
To take the decadence of stuffed chicken Valentino to the next level, stuff the chicken breasts with spoonfuls of seasoned cream cheese for more flavor and contrasting textures.
While some traditional recipes use fontina cheese for stuffing, using cream cheese seasoned with fresh herbs elevates the dish further in terms of creaminess and earthy aromas.
The best part is that you can customize it with any type of seasoned cream cheese or other fillings. Chive and onion, garlic and herb, or vegetable cream cheeses are good options.
Take it a step further and blend in your own freshly chopped herbs or sun-dried tomatoes. Or, go with chopped bacon for some crunchiness and meaty flavor.
If you like spinach and artichoke dip, turn it into a version of chicken Valentino and mix plain cream cheese with spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, garlic, and parmesan cheese.
Or for Mediterranean flair, mix the cream cheese with Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and chunks of feta for a tangy taste and texture with a bite.