Description
This Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a mouthwatering dinner that combines tender chicken breasts, creamy cheese, and savory roasted red peppers. It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling:
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 roasted red pepper (from a jar or homemade), sliced thin
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella slices)
2 tbsp cream cheese or ricotta (optional, for creaminess)
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional for Baking Sauce:
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
2. Place each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice a pocket into the side of each breast (do not cut all the way through). Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add spinach and sauté until wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
5. Remove from heat and stir in roasted red peppers, mozzarella, and cream cheese (if using).
6. Spoon the filling into each chicken breast pocket. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
7. In an oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
8. Add chicken broth and balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice) to the skillet or baking dish.
9. Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Spoon some of the pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor.
Notes
Tips:
– Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
– Substitute provolone or fontina for mozzarella for a gourmet twist.
– Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean touch.
– Pairs perfectly with roasted potatoes, garlic rice, or a green salad.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baked and Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Roasted Red Pepper Stuffed Chicken, Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken, Spinach Chicken Breast, Healthy Chicken Dinner, Baked Chicken Recipes