Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Cut deep pockets into the chicken breasts and stuff them with mozzarella cheese. I typically add about 1 oz. of cheese per breast, but feel free to add more if you prefer. I usually cut the pocket on the thicker, smaller side of the chicken breast. You can also make a slit along the longer side, but if you do, be sure to secure the chicken with toothpicks horizontally to prevent the cheese from oozing out during searing.

In a small bowl, combine the seasonings: 1 tsp. each of dried thyme, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and salt, plus 1/4 tsp. black pepper and a pinch of chili flakes (if desired). Sprinkle this seasoning mixture generously over the chicken breasts.

Heat 1 tbsp. of olive oil in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides for about 3-4 minutes. If needed, add toothpicks horizontally to lock the cheese in place.

Add the remaining 1 tbsp. of olive oil to an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish. Transfer the chicken to the dish and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In the same pan you used to cook the chicken, deglaze with a small splash of chicken broth to loosen any browned bits. Add 2 tbsp. of butter and let it melt.

Once the butter is melted, add the minced shallot and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, turn the heat up to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water and whisk it into the sauce to help thicken it.

Add in the lemon zest, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes until it’s creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Once the chicken is ready, spoon the sauce over the cooked chicken. Slice the chicken and serve with your favorite sides such as pasta, risotto, veggies, or salad. Enjoy!