Crispy Chicken with Goat Cheese & Sun Dried Tomatoes

I love how this recipe takes simple chicken breasts and turns them into something truly special. The creamy goat cheese filling mixed with sun dried tomatoes adds a burst of flavor, while the crunchy panko topping gives the dish that perfect crispy finish. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but still easy enough to make for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy. The goat cheese adds richness, the sun dried tomatoes bring a sweet and savory bite, and the panko topping makes every bite satisfying. It’s a dish that feels restaurant-worthy but doesn’t require complicated steps.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Chicken
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – fresh, not frozen
olive oil
kosher salt and black pepper
non-stick spray

Goat Cheese Filling
5 ounce goat cheese log – if possible pull it out of the fridge 20 minutes early to soften
½ cup mayonnaise
⅓ cup sun dried tomatoes, packed in oil – drained and chopped
1 plump garlic clove – minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
black pepper

Crunchy Topping
1 cup panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 teaspoon dried basil
pinch of salt, pepper, & red pepper flakes

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly coat a baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. I prepare the filling by mixing goat cheese, mayonnaise, chopped sun dried tomatoes, garlic, dried basil, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. I place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and season them with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. I cut a slit into the side of each chicken breast to form a pocket and stuff it generously with the goat cheese filling.
5. I prepare the topping by mixing panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, dried basil, and a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
6. I press the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top of each chicken breast to form a crust.
7. I place the chicken in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is golden and crispy.
8. I let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, for a total of 45 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped spinach or fresh herbs into the goat cheese filling for extra flavor. If I want more crunch, I mix grated Parmesan into the panko topping. For a lighter option, I use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise in the filling.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the chicken in a 350°F oven until warmed through, which keeps the topping crispy. I avoid microwaving since it softens the crust.

FAQs

Can I make this with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I can use boneless thighs, but I reduce the baking time slightly since they cook faster.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the chicken and store it covered in the fridge, then bake it just before serving.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?

I sometimes use cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor.

Do I have to stuff the chicken?

Not necessarily. I can spread the filling on top of the chicken and then add the panko topping.

Can I air fry this recipe?

Yes, I cook the chicken at 375°F in the air fryer for about 18–20 minutes until crispy.

How do I know the chicken is done?

I check with a meat thermometer it should reach 165°F internally.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, I add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

What sides go well with this dish?

I like pairing it with roasted vegetables, a green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes.

Can I freeze stuffed chicken breasts?

Yes, I freeze them before baking, then cook directly from frozen, adding extra time.

How do I keep the panko topping crispy?

I make sure not to overdo the mayonnaise in the topping and bake uncovered for best results.

Conclusion

I enjoy making this crispy chicken with goat cheese and sun dried tomatoes because it always turns out flavorful and impressive. The creamy filling, savory chicken, and crunchy topping come together beautifully, making it a dish I love serving when I want something both comforting and elegant.

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