Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Butterfly the Chicken: Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally through the thickest part of the breast, stopping just before you cut all the way through. Open the breast like a book to create a butterfly shape.
- Season: Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Stuffing
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped baby spinach, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Stuff and Seal the Chicken Breasts
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the spinach and sun-dried tomato mixture evenly onto one side of each butterflied chicken breast. Fold the other side over the filling to enclose it.
- Secure: Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts and keep the filling inside.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
- Mix the Coating: In a shallow bowl or dish, combine Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each stuffed chicken breast into melted butter, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating to all sides.
Step 5: Bake the Tuscan Stuffed Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Place the coated chicken breasts in a baking dish lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
Step 6: Serve
- Rest and Serve: Remove the Tuscan Stuffed Chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, and alongside your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Tuscan Stuffed Chicken
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly stuffed and sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the stuffing with ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or different herbs for added flavor.
- Crispy Coating: For an extra crispy coating, you can broil the chicken breasts for 1-2 minutes after baking.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your Tuscan Stuffed Chicken with these delicious sides:
- Pasta: Serve with a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs.
- Garlic Bread: Enjoy with a slice of garlic bread for dipping into the creamy filling.
- Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil makes a refreshing side dish.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoy making this flavorful Tuscan Stuffed Chicken! It’s a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Tuscany to your table with tender chicken and a savory, cheesy filling. Perfect for a special dinner or any day you want to treat yourself to a delicious meal. Happy cooking!