Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil (for brushing and cooking)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Italian seasoning (1-2 teaspoons)
Filling
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thickest part of each breast without slicing all the way through, creating space for the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine roughly chopped roasted red peppers, fresh spinach leaves, minced garlic, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Toss gently to mix ingredients evenly for a juicy and flavorful center.
- Stuff the Chicken: Using a spoon, stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the red pepper, spinach, and mozzarella mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Brush the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts lightly with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance every bite.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Place the breasts seam-side down first to seal the stuffing inside, cooking for 5-7 minutes on each side or until the cheese inside is melted and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to let the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking and easier stuffing.
- Secure stuffed pockets with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent filling leakage.
- Use fresh mozzarella if possible for creamier texture.
- If jarred roasted peppers are unavailable, roast fresh red bell peppers at home under a broiler or grill until charred, then peel and chop.
- Allow chicken to rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) without drying out.
- You may substitute mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a tangier option.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to add mild heat if desired.
- Fresh basil or thyme can replace Italian seasoning for a different herbal note.
- Serve with cauliflower rice or zoodles for a low-carb meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (pan-fry) or 25-30 minutes (bake)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying or Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: stuffed chicken, roasted red pepper, spinach, mozzarella, healthy dinner, gluten free, easy recipe