Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only is this dish full of rich, bold flavors, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare. The colorful stuffing of roasted red peppers, spinach, and mozzarella provides a burst of freshness that complements the juicy chicken. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or hosting guests, this dish will steal the show.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
-
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
In a bowl, mix the roasted red peppers, spinach, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
-
Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket. Stuff each pocket generously with the filling mixture.
-
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, sear each stuffed chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
-
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
-
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 4
-
Prep Time: 15 minutes
-
Cook Time: 30 minutes
-
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
-
Cheese Alternatives: Swap the mozzarella for feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
-
Herb Additions: Add fresh basil or oregano to the stuffing for an herbal twist.
-
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For extra flavor, include some chopped sun-dried tomatoes in the stuffing.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, provolone or goat cheese can be used as alternatives to mozzarella.
2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can stuff the chicken and refrigerate it until ready to sear and bake.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. Can I use frozen spinach?
It’s better to use fresh spinach for this recipe, but if you use frozen spinach, make sure it’s thoroughly drained and squeezed to remove excess moisture.
6. Can I make this recipe without searing the chicken?
Yes, you can skip the searing step and bake the chicken directly, though the searing adds a nice golden color and flavor.
7. What sides would go well with this stuffed chicken?
Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete meal.
8. Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, onions, or zucchini to the stuffing for more variety.
9. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
Yes, but bone-in chicken will take longer to cook, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
10. How do I prevent the stuffing from spilling out?
Be sure to securely close the chicken with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the stuffing inside while cooking.
Conclusion
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is an easy, yet impressive dish that brings vibrant flavors to your dinner table. It’s a perfect way to enjoy tender chicken filled with creamy mozzarella, fresh spinach, and smoky roasted red peppers. Whether for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe will surely become a favorite!
Print
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken
5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
No reviews
- Author: Chef Sara
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and vibrant dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a savory stuffing of roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make, visually appealing dish is perfect for both family dinners and special occasions, offering rich, bold flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
In a bowl, mix the roasted red peppers, spinach, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
-
Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket. Stuff each pocket generously with the filling mixture.
-
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, sear each stuffed chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
-
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
-
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a tangier flavor, swap mozzarella for feta or goat cheese.
Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the stuffing for extra flavor.
Include sun-dried tomatoes in the stuffing for an extra savory kick.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking & Searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American