Stuffed Chicken Breast: An Incredible Ultimate Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed chicken breast recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella cheese in the filling makes it rich and creamy, while the roasted red peppers and garlic add depth and flavor. The chicken itself becomes incredibly juicy and tender while baking, and the paprika and olive oil give the dish a perfect finish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a meal that looks and tastes gourmet in under an hour.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup spinach, chopped
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
Fresh parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Prepare Chicken Breasts

Take each chicken breast and use a sharp knife to create a pocket by cutting horizontally into the thickest part of the breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

4. Stuff the Chicken

Spoon the filling into each chicken pocket, ensuring it is adequately packed but not overflowing. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to hold the filling in place.

5. Season the Chicken

Rub the outsides of the stuffed breasts with olive oil, paprika, and additional salt and pepper.

6. Bake in Oven

Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

7. Rest the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This step helps retain the juices, ensuring moist chicken.

8. Serve

Carefully remove the toothpicks and plate the chicken breasts. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Different Fillings: Feel free to experiment with other fillings such as sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, or even artichokes for a Mediterranean twist.
Spicy Version: Add a touch of chili flakes or some jalapeño to the filling for a bit of heat.
Herb Variation: Try adding fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary to the filling for additional flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe as they are juicier and more forgiving if overcooked.

2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff the chicken breasts and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking.

3. Can I make the filling vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.

4. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

5. Can I make this without the cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with ricotta, goat cheese, or mascarpone cheese for a different flavor.

6. Can I freeze the stuffed chicken breasts?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking. Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

7. Can I use store-bought roasted red peppers?

Yes, jarred roasted red peppers work perfectly fine in this recipe. Just make sure to drain them well before chopping.

8. Can I add other spices to the chicken?

Yes, feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, chili powder, or garlic powder for a different flavor profile.

9. What can I serve with stuffed chicken breasts?

Stuffed chicken breasts pair beautifully with side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

10. How can I make the chicken even juicier?

For extra juiciness, brine the chicken breasts in a saltwater solution for about 30 minutes before stuffing and baking.

Conclusion

Stuffed Chicken Breast is a simple yet impressive dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. The creamy, cheesy filling pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, making this a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this stuffed chicken breast recipe will become one of your go-to meals.