Introduction
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Combining tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a savory filling of fresh spinach, roasted red peppers, and melted mozzarella cheese, this recipe offers a burst of flavor and satisfying textures in every bite. Not only is this stuffed chicken recipe easy to prepare, but it also cooks in under 40 minutes, making it a fantastic option when you want something quick, tasty, and wholesome.
Overview of the Recipe
This stuffed chicken recipe is a blend of Italian-inspired flavors, featuring the classic trio of mozzarella, spinach, and roasted red peppers. The chicken breasts are seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile, and then seared for a golden-brown crust before being baked to perfection. The result is juicy chicken with a gooey, flavorful filling, offering a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. Serve it alongside your favorite vegetables or pasta for a complete, balanced meal.
History and Origin
Stuffed chicken recipes have a long culinary history, with variations appearing in Italian, French, and Mediterranean cuisines. Chicken stuffed with cheeses, greens, and roasted vegetables has become especially popular in Italian cuisine, where ingredients like mozzarella and roasted peppers are widely used. This recipe is a contemporary twist on traditional Italian flavors, incorporating elements that are easy to source and prepare at home while offering a sophisticated dish that’s both versatile and family-friendly.
Ingredients
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – adds classic Italian herbs to enhance flavor
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves – provides a nutritious and flavorful filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – serves as the main protein of the dish
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced – adds a sweet, smoky flavor to the filling
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – melts into a gooey, creamy filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for searing the chicken breasts to a golden-brown finish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, making sure not to cut all the way through. This pocket will be where you’ll add the stuffing. Season both the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. - Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
Place a handful of fresh spinach leaves into each pocket, followed by a few slices of roasted red pepper. Then, fill each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella cheese. Be generous with the filling for maximum flavor. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the opening of each stuffed chicken breast to prevent the filling from spilling out. - Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden-brown. This step helps lock in the flavors and gives the chicken a beautiful crust. - Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the oven-safe skillet with the chicken to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The mozzarella cheese should be melted and gooey inside. - Serve:
Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. Carefully remove any toothpicks before serving. Enjoy your stuffed chicken with a side of vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Serving
This Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is best served warm, straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, or with a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic. For a lighter option, serve alongside a mixed greens salad with balsamic dressing.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a creamy risotto.
- Sauce Options: Drizzle with a light marinara sauce, pesto, or even a balsamic glaze to elevate the flavors.
- Salad Pairing: A crisp Caesar salad or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.
Variations of the Recipe
- Cheese Variations:
Substitute mozzarella with provolone, gouda, or fontina for a different cheese flavor. - Additional Vegetables:
Add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts to the filling for extra flavor and texture. - Herb Variations:
Incorporate fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary along with the spinach to bring more aromatic notes to the dish. - Spicy Twist:
Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes inside the chicken breast for a spicy kick, or top with a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Health Benefits Notes
- High in Protein: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants: Spinach and red peppers add fiber, vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants to the dish.
- Lower in Carbs: This dish is a good choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, which support overall wellness.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked. - How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and then sear and bake it when ready to serve. - Can I freeze stuffed chicken breasts?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze stuffed chicken breasts before searing. Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before cooking. - What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
Provolone or gouda can be excellent substitutes if you’re looking for a different flavor.
Conclusion
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. This dish not only impresses with its vibrant colors and melting cheese but also satisfies with a well-balanced mix of nutrients. With the right seasonings, fresh ingredients, and easy preparation steps, you can create a memorable meal that brings joy to any dining table. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, this stuffed chicken recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
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Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy stuffed chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Seasoned with Italian herbs, seared, and then baked to juicy perfection, this dish brings a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve with your favorite side for a balanced and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning inside and out.
- Stuff each chicken breast with spinach, roasted red peppers, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven, let rest, then serve with your choice of side.
Notes
- Toothpicks help secure the stuffing if needed.
- Pair with pasta, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g