Description
Succulent roasted red pepper, spinach, and mozzarella stuffed chicken delivers Mediterranean flavors in each delectable bite. Herb-infused chicken breasts showcase fresh ingredients that will make diners crave more.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup (30 g / 1.06 oz) chopped fresh spinach
- ½ cup (120 g / 4.23 oz) chopped roasted red peppers
- 1 cup (100 g / 3.53 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup (25 g / 0.88 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat oven to 375F (190C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Chicken Modification: Create a horizontal pocket in chicken breasts using a sharp knife, keeping one side intact. Season exterior generously with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Filling Creation: Combine spinach, roasted red peppers, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese in a mixing bowl, blending ingredients into a cohesive stuffing mixture.
- Stuffing and Sealing: Carefully fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared mixture, ensuring even distribution. Secure edges with toothpicks if necessary to prevent filling from escaping.
- Searing and Initial Cooking: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden-brown, developing a rich exterior flavor.
- Final Roasting: Transfer skillet to preheated oven or move chicken to prepared baking dish. Roast for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F (74C), guaranteeing complete and safe cooking.
- Serving Presentation: Let chicken rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices. Remove toothpicks, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Notes
Prevent Stuffing Spillage: Carefully seal chicken breast edges with toothpicks or use a tight folding technique to keep delicious filling inside during cooking.
Moisture Retention Technique: Sear chicken before baking to lock in juices, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender, succulent interior.
Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken reaches exactly 165F (74C), preventing overcooking and ensuring food safety without drying out the meat.
Prep-Ahead Strategy: Can assemble stuffed chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance, storing covered in refrigerator to enhance flavor development and simplify meal preparation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg