Step 1: Prepare the Stuffed Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped zucchini until tender and slightly golden. Transfer to a bowl to cool slightly before mixing in the ricotta, Parmesan, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the Chicken: Make a deep cut along the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket generously with the zucchini and cheese mixture. Secure the openings with toothpicks.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, heat more olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Then, transfer to a baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare and Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Season the Potatoes: Toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast: Place the sweet potatoes in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and starting to caramelize.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish with the chicken in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the juices run clear. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove Toothpicks: Carefully remove any toothpicks from the chicken breasts.
- Serve: Place a stuffed chicken breast on each plate along with a serving of the roasted sweet potato slices. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Conclusion
This meal of chicken stuffed with zucchini and cheese, paired with sweet paprika-roasted sweet potatoes, offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s a comforting yet healthy dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the savory, creamy filling of the chicken along with the sweet, spicy touch of the roasted sweet potatoes for a balanced and satisfying meal.