Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful stuffing of roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This recipe is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that will impress your family or guests. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish stands out for both its taste and nutrition.

Why Make This Recipe

This stuffed chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of color and flavor. The sweetness of roasted red peppers blends perfectly with the rich creaminess of mozzarella, while fresh spinach adds a nutritious boost. Easy to prepare, this dish can be a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some vegetables into your diet while enjoying a hearty protein source.

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing chicken

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, creating a “pocket” for the stuffing. Be sure not to cut all the way through the chicken.
In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
In a medium bowl, combine the roasted red peppers, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach mixture, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Stuff each chicken breast with the mixture, pressing the filling in gently so it stays inside. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
In the same pan, heat a little more olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the stuffed chicken breasts to the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Optionally, drizzle balsamic vinegar over the stuffed chicken before serving for added flavor.

How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Serve this stuffed chicken hot, paired with a light salad or seasoned veggies for a well-rounded meal. For added elegance, you can slice the chicken into medallions to showcase the colorful filling and drizzle with balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch.

How to Store Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy.

Tips to Make Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Ensure not to overstuff the chicken breasts; too much filling can make it hard to seal them properly.
Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
Experiment with herbs! You can add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra punch of flavor.

Variation

Feel free to customize the stuffing based on your preferences. You can add cooked bacon for a smoky flavor, or substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard. For a spicy kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the stuffing mixture.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, you can use cheese like feta, gouda, or provolone for different flavor profiles.

2. Is it possible to grill this stuffed chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling is an excellent alternative! Just be sure to secure the openings well and cook over medium heat, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Sure! You can assemble the stuffed chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook it. This makes for an easier prep time on busy evenings.