Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

A Restaurant-Quality Dish That’s Surprisingly Simple

Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a dish that’s both elegant and approachable. It takes simple chicken breasts and elevates them with a flavorful and colorful stuffing of roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and creamy mozzarella cheese. The chicken is seasoned with a simple blend of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then baked to juicy perfection. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or any time you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It is also a great meal-prep recipe.

A Recipe That’s Both Healthy and Delicious

I first made this Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken when I was looking for a healthy and flavorful way to prepare chicken breasts. I wanted something that was a little more exciting than plain baked chicken, and this recipe fit the bill perfectly. The combination of the roasted red peppers, spinach, and mozzarella was delicious, and the chicken was incredibly tender and juicy. This stuffed chicken has become a regular in my dinner rotation. It’s a healthy and satisfying meal that I feel good about serving to my family, and it’s always a hit. I love that it’s so easy to make and that it looks so elegant on the plate. I also make this recipe when I have guests over.

Ingredient Insights: Choosing the Right Ingredients for Flavor and Texture

The success of this recipe lies in the combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4): The protein source for this dish.
  • Tip: Choose chicken breasts that are relatively uniform in size and thickness for even cooking. You will need to create a pocket for stuffing.
• Roasted Red Peppers (1 cup, sliced): Add a sweet, smoky flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
  • Tip: You can use jarred roasted red peppers, or you can roast your own.
• Fresh Spinach (1 cup): Provides a boost of nutrients and a delicate, earthy flavor.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Adds a classic, melty, and gooey texture to the filling.
  • Tip: You can also use a blend of Italian cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for brushing the chicken, adding flavor and promoting browning.
• Seasonings:
  • Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.
  • Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs, such as oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, that adds a classic Italian flavor.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor.

Essential Equipment: Tools for Easy Preparation and Baking

• Baking Dish: For baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the olive oil and seasonings.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cutting Board: For preparing the chicken and vegetables.
• Knife: For slicing the chicken breasts and preparing the vegetables.
• Toothpicks (Optional): For securing the opening of the stuffed chicken breasts.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing the chicken with the oil and seasoning mixture.

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Ingredients with Measurements

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Detailed Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Chicken: Setting the Stage for Baking

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully make a deep horizontal cut along the side of each chicken breast, creating a pocket for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
   • Tip: You want to create a pocket that’s large enough to hold a generous amount of filling, but not so large that the chicken breast falls apart.

2. Stuff the Chicken: Building Layers of Flavor

1. Combine Filling: In a medium sized bowl, combine the sliced roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese. You can also add a little of the seasonings to the filling mixture, if desired.
2. Stuff Chicken: Divide the filling evenly among the four chicken breasts. Carefully spoon the filling into the pocket of each chicken breast, pressing it in gently to distribute it evenly.
3. Secure with Toothpicks (Optional): If you’re concerned about the filling spilling out during baking, you can secure the opening of each chicken breast with one or two toothpicks.

3. Season the Chicken: Adding Flavor and Aroma

1. Combine Oil and Seasonings: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush Chicken: Using a pastry brush or your fingers, brush the olive oil and seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts.

4. Bake to Perfection: Achieving Juicy Chicken and Melted Cheese

1. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed and seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
   • Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and the juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly.

5. Serve: Enjoying Your Flavorful Creation

1. Rest (Optional): Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken hot, with your favorite sides.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: Tips for Success

• Chicken Dry:
  • Problem: The chicken is dry and overcooked.
  • Solutions: Make sure not to overbake the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) but no higher.
• Filling Leaking:
  • Problem: The filling leaks out of the chicken during baking.
  • Solutions: Don’t overstuff the chicken breasts. Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
• Chicken Not Browning:
  • Problem: The chicken is not browning properly.
  • Solutions: Make sure your oven is at the correct temperature.

Tips and Variations: Customize Your Stuffed Chicken

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses in the filling, such as provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Add Heat: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for a spicy kick.
• Other Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or diced bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Bacon: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the filling for a smoky flavor.
• Herb Variations: Use fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, instead of dried Italian seasoning.
• Pesto: Add a spoonful of pesto to the filling.

Serving Suggestions: A Versatile Dish for Any Meal

• Weeknight Dinner: A quick, easy, and satisfying meal for busy weeknights.
• Family Meal: A flavorful dish that the whole family will enjoy.
• Dinner Party: Impress your guests with this elegant and delicious stuffed chicken.
• Special Occasions: Perfect for a romantic dinner or a holiday meal.

Pairing Recommendations: Drinks and Sides

• Drinks:
  • White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with the chicken and vegetables.
  • Light Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, can also be a good option.
  • Iced Tea: A refreshing non-alcoholic choice.
• Sides:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots are a healthy and delicious side dish.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the chicken and filling.
  • Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf adds texture and absorbs any extra juices.
  • Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
  • Pasta: Serve alongside a simple pasta dish.

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Nutritional Information: A Flavorful and Relatively Healthy Meal

Per serving (approximate, will vary based on size and specific ingredients): Calories: 350-400, Fat: 18-22g, Carbohydrates: 5-10g, Protein: 35-40g. (Note: This is an approximation and may vary based on the specific ingredients used).

Your Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Questions Answered

• Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
  • A: You can prepare the filling and stuff the chicken breasts a few hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
• Q: How do I store leftovers?
  • A: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Q: Can I freeze this dish?
  • A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked and cooled stuffed chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
  • A: Absolutely! Provolone, fontina, Gruyere, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious.
• Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
  • A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess water before adding it to the filling.
• Q: What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
  • A: You can use a mixture of dried oregano, basil, and thyme instead.
• Q: Can I grill these instead of baking them?
  • A: Yes, the recipe specifically mentions grilling. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?
• A: Yes, you can adapt this for an air fryer.
• Q: Can I make this recipe spicier?
  • A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. You can also use a spicier cheese, like pepper jack.
• Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
• A: You would need to find dairy-free alternatives for the cheese.
• Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
• A: Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350F until heated through, or in a skillet over medium-low heat.