Australian Vegetarian Lunch Feast: Mushroom and Leek Stuffed Chicken Breast with Creamy Cauliflower Puree and Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

Allergens

Dairy (cream), Gluten-free

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 1 large leek, white and light green parts, thinly sliced
• 3 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into thin fries
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato fries with 1 tbsp olive oil and salt, then spread onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
3. Meanwhile, make the mushroom and leek stuffing: In a medium pan over medium heat, sauté sliced leeks with 1 tbsp olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes, or until tender and aromatic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Carefully slice a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, taking care not to cut all the way through. Stuff each chicken breast with the prepared mushroom leek mixture and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
5. In a large pot, steam cauliflower florets until tender, about 8 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot. Add heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.
6. In a large non stick skillet over medium heat, sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3 4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 20 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and slicing.

Chef’s Insight

The combination of textures and flavors in this dish creates a truly memorable experience. Make sure to let the stuffed chicken rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Notes

This recipe can be easily adapted to include other vegetables or proteins for a different flavor profile.