1. Prepare the Chicken
- Butterfly the Chicken Breasts:
- Using a sharp knife, slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the Chicken:
- Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the Spinach and Garlic:
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, sliced roasted red peppers, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
3. Stuff the Chicken
- Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
- Divide the filling mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, stuffing each pocket with the mixture. Secure the openings with toothpicks to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
4. Cook the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear the Chicken:
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Rest the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve the Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken hot, with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken
- Butterfly Evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly butterflied to create a uniform pocket for the filling.
- Secure Well: Use enough toothpicks to securely close the chicken breasts and prevent the filling from leaking.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F (74°C).
Variations to Try
- Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Substitute mozzarella with goat cheese and add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Herb-Crusted: Add a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a crispy crust.
- Mushroom and Swiss: Use sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for a different flavor combination.
Conclusion
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its juicy chicken and delicious filling, it’s sure to be a hit.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect stuffed chicken lies in properly butterflying the chicken, securing the filling well, and ensuring it’s cooked to the right temperature. By following this guide, you’ll create a delicious and satisfying meal every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken!