Introduction
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful, nutritious dish that’s perfect for a hearty dinner. The combination of sweet roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella stuffed inside juicy chicken breasts brings together an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. This simple yet elegant meal is ideal for any occasion and can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners alike.
The seasoned olive oil coating on the chicken adds a layer of delicious herbs and spices, enhancing the flavor while keeping the chicken moist and tender as it bakes. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Using a sharp knife, carefully make a deep cut along the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Be sure not to cut all the way through the chicken, as you want the ingredients to stay inside.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
- Stuff each chicken breast with equal amounts of roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- If necessary, secure the opening of the chicken breasts with toothpicks to prevent the filling from spilling out while cooking.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Brush this seasoning mixture over both sides of each stuffed chicken breast to add flavor and help with browning.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish, ensuring there is space between each piece for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should no longer be pink inside, and the juices should run clear.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Serve the stuffed chicken breasts warm, along with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Cooking Notes:
- Roasted Red Peppers: You can use jarred roasted red peppers to save time, or roast your own by placing red peppers under the broiler until the skin is charred and then peeling it off.
- Mozzarella Cheese: You can substitute shredded mozzarella with fresh mozzarella slices for an even creamier texture.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to add extra herbs like thyme or basil to the seasoning mix, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Rice or Quinoa: Serve this stuffed chicken alongside a bed of rice, quinoa, or couscous for a well-rounded meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus make for a perfect healthy side dish.
- With Salad: Pair the stuffed chicken with a simple green salad for a lighter option.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prep the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Sodium: 550mg
Conclusion
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish that is both easy to make and versatile enough for various occasions. The rich combination of roasted red peppers, spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese inside juicy chicken breasts creates a delightful meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. Enjoy