Chicken breasts receive a flavour boost, inside and out, with a festive cranberry stuffing and a Parma ham wrapping from Colin McGurran. Served with this crisp-topped cauliflower cheese, it's a perfect Winter meal the whole family are sure to love.
Make a small incision in the thickest part of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through but allowing enough room for the stuffing
Divide the cranberries into 4 equal portions and stuff into the incision of each breast. Season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper and arrange 2-3 basil leaves on top of each breast
Wrap a slice of Parma ham around each breast, ensuring you cover the basil and the opening of the incision. Wrap each breast tightly in cling film and place in the fridge
Once tender, remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss with the crumb mixture. Place back on the baking tray and set aside. Increase the oven temperature to 220°C/gas mark 7
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Place a heavy-based pan over a high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until golden, approximately 2-3 minutes. Turn and repeat to cook the opposite sides
1 tbsp of olive oil
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Transfer the breasts to an oven dish and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. 5 minutes before the chicken is ready, return the cauliflower to the oven
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Remove the breasts and cauliflower from the oven and divide onto 4 plates. Serve immediately
Colin McGurran began his career with a burning ambition to own a red Mercedes. Almost 20 years on and he has fulfilled that ambition and much more besides.
