Introduction :
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a savory and elegant dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and creamy mozzarella cheese. The stuffed chicken breasts are then baked to perfection, resulting in a juicy and delicious meal that’s both visually appealing and satisfying. With its combination of vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish is sure to impress family and guests alike.
Dinner tonight was a hit! Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken that’s bursting with flavor and cheese!
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:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make a deep cut along the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with equal amounts of roasted red peppers, spinach, and mozzarella cheese.
4. Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Variations:
1. Mediterranean Style:
– Add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the filling.
– Season with oregano and basil for a Mediterranean flavor.
2. Italian Style:
– Incorporate pesto sauce into the filling for an added burst of flavor.
– Use provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella.
3. Spicy Kick:
– Add a few slices of jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling.
– Serve with a side of spicy marinara sauce.
4. Mushroom and Herb:
– Sauté mushrooms with garlic and herbs and add them to the spinach and roasted red pepper mixture.
– Use a mix of mozzarella and Gruyère cheese for a richer taste.
5. Bacon-Wrapped:
– Wrap the stuffed chicken breasts in bacon before baking for added flavor and crispiness.
– This variation adds a smoky, savory touch to the dish.
Tips:
1. Butterfly the Chicken: Carefully butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. This creates a pocket for the stuffing.
2. Secure the Filling: Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts after stuffing to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
3. Season Well: Season both the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs for maximum flavor.
4. Pre-Cook Spinach: Sauté the spinach briefly before stuffing to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.
5. Cheese Options: While mozzarella is a great choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, or a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for varied textures and flavors.
6. Cooking Evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness to cook uniformly. If needed, pound them lightly with a meat mallet.
7. Baking Dish: Use a baking dish that snugly fits the chicken breasts to help keep the stuffing in place.
8. Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
9. Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This helps retain the juices and keeps the meat moist.
By exploring these variations and following these tips, you can create a delicious and impressive Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken tailored to your taste preferences.