Irresistible Baked Roasted Red Pepper Stuffed Chicken

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Dinner

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you straight to a cozy Italian kitchen? Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken does just that. Imagine succulent chicken breasts bursting with the flavors of sweet roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and creamy mozzarella. The aroma wafts through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a delightful meal.

This dish not only pleases the palate but also makes for an impressive centerpiece at gatherings. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this stuffed chicken is sure to wow your guests. The combination of vibrant colors and rich textures creates a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience that promises to impress!

Key Ingredients For Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: You will need about 3-4 chicken breasts, ensuring they are even in thickness for uniform cooking.

  • Roasted Red Peppers: Use jars of roasted red peppers for convenience; they add a sweet and smoky flavor.

  • Fresh Spinach: Opt for baby spinach as it wilts down nicely without overpowering other flavors.

  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides that gooey texture; fresh mozzarella can also be used for a creamier finish.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth of flavor; minced garlic works best in this recipe.

  • Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the overall flavor while keeping the chicken moist.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create pockets without cutting all the way through.

Second Step: Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine chopped roasted red peppers, fresh spinach leaves, minced garlic, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Third Step: Stuff the Chicken

Gently fill each chicken breast pocket with the mixture from the bowl. Press down lightly to ensure they are well packed. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.

Fourth Step: Drizzle with Olive Oil

Place stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over each piece and sprinkle additional salt and pepper on top.

Fifth Step: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestion: Transfer to plates and serve alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for an elegant dinner.

Recipe preparation

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

  • Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts evenly before stuffing to promote consistent cooking throughout.

  • Substitutions: Feel free to swap out spinach with other greens like kale or arugula based on availability or preference.

  • Rest Before Serving: Allow stuffed chicken to rest for about five minutes after baking for juicier meat.

Presentation Ideas

This Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of garlic mashed potatoes complements the savory flavors of the stuffed chicken perfectly.

  • Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate, balancing the richness of the dish.

  • Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese provides a refreshing side that enhances the overall meal experience.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken

To make your Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken even better, consider these cooking tips. First, ensure that the chicken breasts are evenly pounded to allow consistent cooking. This step helps avoid dry edges while keeping the stuffing moist. Second, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for at least an hour. This enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t forget to let the stuffed chicken rest for about five minutes after baking. Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Nutritional Information

This Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken offers a delicious balance of protein and nutrients. Each serving is rich in vitamins A and C from spinach and red peppers. Furthermore, mozzarella cheese adds calcium and protein to this dish. If you’re watching your calorie intake or seeking a low-carb option, you can adjust portion sizes accordingly without sacrificing taste.

Storage Recommendations

If you have leftovers from your Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken, store them properly to maintain freshness. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. You can also freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to three months. To reheat baked chicken, thaw it overnight in the fridge before warming it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

How can I customize my Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken?

You can easily customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or cheeses based on your preference. Consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor or substituting goat cheese for mozzarella if you enjoy a tangy twist. Experimenting with herbs such as basil or oregano can also enhance the taste profile of your dish.

Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes! While boneless skinless chicken breasts work best for stuffing due to their size and shape, you can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat. Just ensure that they are cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

What sides go well with Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken?

This stuffed chicken pairs beautifully with various sides like garlic bread or a light salad dressed with vinaigrette. You might also serve it alongside quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal that satisfies your hunger while providing essential nutrients.

Can I make Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your stuffed chicken earlier in the day or even the night before. Assemble everything but wait to bake until you’re ready to eat; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap in the fridge until you’re prepared to cook it. Adjust baking time accordingly if starting from cold.

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Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken


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  • Author: Rym
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Baked Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table. Juicy chicken breasts are generously filled with sweet roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and creamy mozzarella cheese, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With vibrant colors and rich textures, this dish not only satisfies the palate but also impresses as an elegant centerpiece.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
  2. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create pockets without cutting through completely.
  3. In a bowl, mix roasted red peppers, spinach, minced garlic, and mozzarella; season with salt and pepper.
  4. Stuff each chicken breast pocket with the mixture and secure with toothpicks if needed.
  5. Place in the baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle additional salt and pepper on top.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 50g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

Tags:

baked chicken / healthy dinner / Italian cuisine / mozzarella cheese / roasted red pepper / spinach recipes / stuffed chicken

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