Description
This Savory Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese. The chicken is seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, seared to golden perfection, then baked with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese for a delightful and hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing in skillet)
Stuffing
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Toppings and Finishing
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken later.
- Create Chicken Pocket: Place the chicken breasts on a clean surface and gently slice them horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through, ready to hold the stuffing.
- Oil the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts to help seasoning stick and promote searing.
- Season Chicken: Evenly coat both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt to infuse flavor.
- Prepare Stuffing Mixture: In a small bowl, combine chopped roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh basil to create the filling.
- Stuff Chicken: Carefully fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared mixture, folding the chicken over to enclose the stuffing completely.
- Secure the Filling: Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts, ensuring the stuffing remains inside during cooking.
- Heat Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil to prepare for searing.
- Sear Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown to lock in juices and start cooking.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Move the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top for added flavor.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the chicken for a savory crust during baking.
- Bake Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Remove Toothpicks: Carefully remove the toothpicks from each chicken breast before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the stuffed chicken breasts with your favorite side dish and enjoy a delicious, savory meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is sliced carefully to avoid cutting all the way through, creating a secure pocket for stuffing.
- Use fresh ingredients for best flavor, especially fresh spinach and basil.
- To prevent the stuffing from falling out, securely fasten the chicken with toothpicks before searing.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- Letting the chicken rest after baking keeps it moist and tender.
- Pair with side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.
