30-Minute Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe – Easy Mediterranean Style

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Table of Contents

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Pro Tips
• Serving Suggestions
• Nutritional Information
• Storage & Leftovers
• FAQs
• Related Recipes

This stuffed chicken breast recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a gourmet meal with roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is surprisingly simple to prepare while delivering restaurant-quality results. The combination of sweet roasted red peppers, nutritious spinach, and gooey mozzarella creates a flavor explosion that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners when you want something extraordinary, this stuffed chicken recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare. The colorful filling not only looks impressive when sliced but also keeps the chicken incredibly moist and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at stuffed chicken breasts for the first time, this recipe will guide you through each step to achieve perfect results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

• Ready in under 45 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
• Impressive presentation with minimal effort – great for entertaining guests
• High in protein and packed with nutrients from the spinach and red peppers
• Versatile recipe that can be prepped ahead of time
• Naturally low-carb and gluten-free without any modifications
• Perfect balance of flavors – creamy cheese, sweet peppers, and earthy spinach
• Restaurant-quality meal at a fraction of the cost
• Customizable with different cheeses or vegetables based on what you have on hand

According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, combining protein-rich foods like chicken with vegetables significantly increases nutritional value and satiety. This stuffed chicken breast recipe follows that principle perfectly by incorporating nutrient-dense spinach with lean protein.

Ingredients for This Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

For the Chicken:

• 4 large chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each), boneless and skinless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling:

• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• ¾ cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped (jarred or homemade)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional for extra creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Substitutions:

• For dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives
• For a spicy kick: Add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the filling
• Vegetable variations: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers or use kale instead of spinach
• Cheese alternatives: Replace mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or gouda for different flavor profiles

How to Make This Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and, using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into the thickest side of each breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Rub the outside of each chicken breast with olive oil, then season generously with the spice mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, roasted red peppers, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, fresh basil, cream cheese (if using), and Parmesan cheese.
2. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Stuff and Secure the Chicken

1. Divide the filling mixture evenly between the four chicken breasts, gently stuffing it into the pockets you created.
2. If needed, secure each chicken breast with toothpicks to keep the filling from falling out during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish before placing in the oven.

For more information on proper chicken cooking temperatures, visit the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service website, which provides comprehensive guidelines on safe internal temperatures for all meat products.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Remove toothpicks if used.
3. Slice the stuffed chicken on a diagonal to showcase the colorful filling.
4. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

• Even thickness matters: For uniform cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cutting the pocket.
• Don’t overstuff: While it’s tempting to add more filling, overstuffing can cause the filling to leak out during cooking.
• Secure properly: Use toothpicks to close the pocket and prevent filling from escaping.
• Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) without cutting into it and losing juices.
• Pat dry ingredients: Remove excess moisture from spinach and roasted red peppers to prevent watery filling.
• Make ahead: Prepare the stuffed chicken up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help the juices redistribute.
• Slice for presentation: Cut the chicken on a bias to showcase the colorful filling for a restaurant-quality presentation.

For more expert chicken cooking techniques, America’s Test Kitchen offers excellent guidance on achieving perfect results every time. Their tested methods for stuffed chicken breasts are particularly helpful for home cooks looking to elevate their skills.

Best Ways to Serve This Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

This stuffed chicken breast recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some perfect accompaniments:

• Starches: Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic rice pilaf, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices
• Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a simple side salad
• Sauces: Drizzle with pesto, a light lemon butter sauce, or a balsamic reduction
• Wine pairing: Medium-bodied white wine such as Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir
• Presentation: Serve sliced on a diagonal to showcase the colorful filling, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs

For a complete meal, try this stuffed chicken breast recipe with our [Lemon Parmesan Risotto] or [Mediterranean Quinoa Salad].

For excellent wine pairing recommendations with Mediterranean chicken dishes like this one, check out Wine Folly’s comprehensive guide, which offers expert advice on matching wines with different chicken preparations.

Nutritional Information for This Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Per serving (1 stuffed chicken breast):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Calcium: 220mg
• Iron: 2mg

This stuffed chicken recipe is naturally low-carb, high-protein, and gluten-free, making it perfect for those following specialized diets.

For more information about the health benefits of incorporating spinach into your diet, check out this comprehensive guide from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, which details the impressive nutritional profile of this superfood ingredient used in our recipe.

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: This recipe freezes well! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Meal prep: This stuffed chicken breast recipe is excellent for meal prep – prepare several at once for easy dinners throughout the week.

FAQs for This Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Can I make this stuffed chicken recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.

What can I use instead of roasted red peppers in this stuffed chicken?

If you don’t have roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes make an excellent substitute. You could also use sautéed bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even olive tapenade for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

How do I know when my stuffed chicken is fully cooked?

The most reliable method is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken (not the filling) – it should register 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part; fully cooked chicken will be opaque with no pink showing.

Can I grill this stuffed chicken instead of baking it?

Absolutely! Grilling adds wonderful flavor to this stuffed chicken recipe. Sear both sides over direct heat for 3-4 minutes, then move to indirect heat and continue grilling with the lid closed for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

For more creative stuffed chicken variations and cooking techniques, check out Bon Appétit’s guide to stuffed chicken breasts, which offers excellent tips from professional chefs on mastering this versatile dish.

Related Recipes

If you love this stuffed chicken breast recipe, try our:

• [Chicken Caprese Bake] – Another Italian-inspired chicken dinner with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil
• [Mediterranean Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms] – For a vegetarian option with similar flavors
• [Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet] – A one-pan chicken dinner with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes
• [Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner] – An easy weeknight meal with similar Mediterranean flavors
• [Pesto Chicken Roll-Ups] – Another delicious stuffed chicken variation

For more Mediterranean diet inspiration, visit Oldways, a nonprofit food and nutrition organization that offers excellent resources on the health benefits of Mediterranean cooking styles and ingredients like those used in this recipe.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now you know how to make the best stuffed chicken breast recipe at home! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive, restaurant-worthy meal that’s actually easy to prepare. The combination of sweet roasted red peppers, nutritious spinach, and melty mozzarella creates a stuffed chicken dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Have you tried making stuffed chicken breast before? What’s your favorite filling combination? Let us know in the comments below! And if you make this recipe, we’d love to see your results – share your photos on social media and tag us.

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