Description
Stuffed Chicken Recipe
This stuffed chicken recipe is an impressive, flavorful dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something special. Filled with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella, these chicken breasts are juicy, tender, and bursting with a Mediterranean-inspired stuffing. Perfect for a cozy family meal or a special dinner, this recipe is easy to make and will leave everyone at the table impressed!
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Mix spinach, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic. Stuff into each chicken breast and secure with toothpicks.
4. Sear chicken in a skillet with olive oil until golden, then bake for 20-25 mins until cooked through.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a horizontal pocket into the thickest side of the breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2. Season: Season the inside and outside of each chicken pocket generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly.
4. Stuff: Divide the filling evenly among the four chicken breasts. Use a spoon to press the stuffing gently into the pocket. Secure the opening with 2-3 toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking.
5. Sear: Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
6. Bake: Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest: Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before removing the toothpicks and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed chicken is a versatile centerpiece. For a complete meal, serve it alongside:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the juices.
- Simple roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- A light, crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- A side of pasta, such as angel hair tossed in olive oil and herbs.
How-to Summary
Create a pocket in seasoned chicken breasts, fill with a mixture of spinach, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic. Secure with toothpicks, sear until golden, and then bake at 375°F until cooked through. Rest before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare stuffed chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts, secure them with toothpicks, and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours before searing and baking.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes? Roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts make excellent substitutes, offering a similar tangy and savory note.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding the stuffing) – it should read 165°F (74°C).
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. Provolone, fontina, or feta cheese would all work beautifully and add different flavor profiles.
My cheese leaked out while baking. What happened? This usually means the pocket was overstuffed or not secured tightly enough with toothpicks. Ensure the opening is well-sealed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cutting the pocket too deep: Slicing all the way through creates a mess. Cut just deep enough to form a generous pouch.
- Skipping the sear: Searing locks in juices and creates essential flavor. Don’t rush this step.
- Overstuffing: This makes the chicken difficult to seal and causes filling to spill during cooking.
- Not letting it rest: Slicing immediately will cause all the flavorful juices to run out. Patience is key.
Conclusion
This stuffed chicken recipe is a guaranteed way to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress weekend guests. The combination of savory chicken, melted cheese, and Mediterranean-inspired filling is both comforting and elegant. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a perfectly juicy, flavorful, and visually stunning dish every time. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!