This savory stuffed chicken recipe is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s as elegant as it is simple to make. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a mouthwatering combination of roasted red peppers, sautéed spinach, and gooey mozzarella cheese, making it the perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with flavor: A delicious medley of roasted red peppers, spinach, and melted mozzarella.
- Easy to make yet impressive enough to serve guests.
- High in protein and low in carbs, ideal for healthy eating.
- Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh spinach
- Roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Italian seasoning
- Toothpicks (to secure the chicken)
Directions
- Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add spinach and sauté until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open the chicken breast like a book and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stuff the chicken: Layer a portion of roasted red peppers, sautéed spinach, and shredded mozzarella inside each chicken breast. Fold the chicken closed and secure the edges with toothpicks.
- Sear the chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove toothpicks, slice each chicken breast carefully, and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Swap: Use feta, goat cheese, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Add Heat: Add red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Herb Upgrade: Incorporate fresh basil or parsley into the filling for added aroma.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with large portobello mushrooms and bake with the same filling.
- Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu: Swap roasted red peppers for ham and use Swiss cheese instead of mozzarella.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick option.
- Freezing: Freeze stuffed chicken before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but the cooking time may vary slightly.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Secure the edges tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine, and avoid overstuffing the chicken.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed chicken up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad pair beautifully with this chicken.
Can I grill the stuffed chicken instead?
Yes, grill over medium heat, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What’s the best way to butterfly chicken breasts?
Use a sharp knife and slice horizontally while keeping the knife parallel to the cutting board. Go slowly to avoid cutting through completely.
Can I add breadcrumbs for extra texture?
Yes, coat the chicken with seasoned breadcrumbs before searing for a crispy exterior.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese altogether.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly before sautéing to remove excess moisture.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Savory stuffed chicken with roasted red peppers, spinach, and mozzarella is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. With its vibrant flavors and juicy, tender texture, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special celebrations. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your home!
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Savory Stuffed Chicken with Roasted Red Peppers, Spinach, and Mozzarella
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Description
Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with roasted red peppers, sautéed spinach, and gooey mozzarella, then baked to perfection. This elegant yet simple dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 large chicken breasts
- 150 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella slices)
- 100 g (1 cup) roasted red peppers, sliced
- 100 g (3 cups) fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through. Set aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Open each chicken breast pocket and layer with roasted red peppers, sautéed spinach, and mozzarella cheese.
- Secure the stuffed chicken breasts with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling in place.
- Season the Chicken:
- Brush the outside of each chicken breast with the remaining olive oil.
- Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of olive oil if needed.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F).
- Serve:
- Remove toothpicks or twine before serving. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, alongside a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a green salad.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone, gouda, or feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
- For added flavor, include a few slices of sun-dried tomatoes in the filling.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked when ready to serve.