Chicken Breasts With Almonds, Apples and Gouda

In a small saute pan, toast the almonds over medium-high heat, shaking occasionally to prevent them from burning, for about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside. In the same pan add the butter and apples and cook, stirring frequently, until softened and caramelized, about 5 minutes. Set aside.

Using a paring knife, make a deep and wide pocket in each chicken breast by piercing the plump, short end of the chicken breast with the knife, moving the knife gently from side to side, about 2 inches wide, within half an inch of the edges.

Sprinkle the inside and outside of the pocketed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place one piece of gouda inside each chicken breast, then fill each breast with 1/4 of the sauteed apples and 1 tablespoon of the toasted almonds.

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and butter. Add the chicken breasts (do NOT crowd the pan). Cook for 4-5 minutes, then turn and cook for 3 minutes. Add the chicken stock, place a lid on the pan, and continue to cook for 2 minutes. Remove the lid and cook until the stock has almost evaporated.

Serve the breasts whole or sliced on the bias. Garnish with remaining toasted almonds and any remaining pan juices.