Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Ever have one of those days where you just need a dinner that feels like a big, cozy hug but also makes you look like a total gourmet genius? Yeah, me too! Let me introduce you to my ultimate go-to: spinach and sun-dried tomato stuffed chicken breasts. Trust me, this dish has all the right vibes with its gooey mozzarella, savory garlic undertones, and a crispy golden brown exterior that’s just begging for a fork and an Instagram moment. 🍗🌿

Creating meals filled with flavor is my passion, and one of my favorite recipes to prepare is this Stuffed Chicken. It’s not the type of straight-up healthy dish that I normally go for, but it has some nutritious elements in it, like spinach, that make me feel much better about eating it.

The rest of the stuffing, including tender pieces of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy, melty mozzarella, makes this feel like a total indulgence, but in this version, at least, it’s an indulgence with some nutritious add-ins.

Stuffed Chicken Recipe Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: Rich in protein, low fat, keeps you full longer.
• Spinach: High in iron and vitamins, boosts immune health.
• Sun-dried Tomatoes: Adds tangy flavor, high in antioxidants.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy texture, provides calcium and protein.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty flavor, rich in calcium.
• Garlic: Enhances flavor, aids heart health, contains allicin.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat, rich in antioxidants.

Stuffed Chicken Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make this Stuffed Chicken Recipe

1. Heat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and prepare a baking dish with olive oil.

2. To butterfly the chicken breasts, slice them horizontally without cutting all the way through. Then season the breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

3. In a bowl, mix together the following ingredients: chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.

4. Fill each chicken breast with the spinach mixture, then use toothpicks to close up the edges and keep the filling from spilling out.

5. In a skillet, over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side until they are golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.

6. Move the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish that has been prepared and is waiting. Set the oven to preheat at 375 degrees. Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the filling reaches a temperature that can only be described as hot.

7. Carefully remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts.

8. Allow the juices to redistribute before slicing the chicken. Let it rest for a few minutes.

9. The stuffed chicken should be garnished with parsley that is freshly chopped.

10. Warm servings are perfect with any number of side dishes or a crisp salad. Enjoy!

Stuffed Chicken Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking dish
3. Skillet
4. Mixing bowl
5. Knife
6. Cutting board
7. Measuring cups and spoons
8. Toothpicks
9. Tongs (or spatula)
10. Plate (for resting meat)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just remember to thaw it out and really squeeze it until it is dry, so it doesn’t make your dish watery.
• Q: What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?A: For maximum flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes that are packed in oil. Before you chop them, make sure to drain them well.
• Q: Can I substitute the mozzarella with another cheese?A: Yes, mozzarella is something that you can substitute with provolone or a mild white cheddar, and they work well for that.
• Q: How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?A: Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) by using a meat thermometer.
• Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?Indeed, preparing the stuffed chicken up to one day prior to baking it is possible. Once you stuff the chicken, place it in the refrigerator, and then bake it when the time comes.

Stuffed Chicken Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For spinach, substitute with kale or Swiss chard, chopped.
Chopped roasted red peppers work in place of sun-dried tomatoes.
Substitute shredded provolone or gouda for mozzarella cheese.
Substitute grated Pecorino Romano for Parmesan cheese.
Substitute shallots for garlic to get a mellower flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Brine the Chicken: To ensure the chicken breasts stay moist and flavorful, consider brining them for 30 minutes in a mixture of water, salt, and a little sugar before preparing the recipe. This step can help enhance the overall taste and juiciness of the chicken.