Stuffed chicken breast is a delightful dish that not only looks impressive but also bursts with flavor. Juicy chicken is filled with a savory mixture of herbs, cheese, and vegetables, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family night, this recipe will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 2 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 stuffed chicken breast) contains approximately 350 calories, 22g of protein, 25g of fat, and 5g of carbohydrates. This is based on a standard serving size and provides a balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Carefully butterfly each chicken breast to create a pocket. 3. In a bowl, mix the spinach, cream cheese, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic. 4. Season the inside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. 5. Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture. 6. Use toothpicks to secure the openings. 7. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. 8. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. 9. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes. 10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. 
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different ingredients to the stuffing. You can substitute spinach with kale or add mushrooms for extra flavor. Use any type of cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, for a unique twist.
Serving and Pairings
Stuffed chicken breast pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. A light white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed chicken breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not seasoning the chicken properly before stuffing.
- Overcooking the chicken, leading to dryness.
- Not securing the stuffing properly, risking it spilling out.
- Skipping the searing step, which adds flavor.
- Using too much filling, making it hard to cook through.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the stuffed chicken rest before slicing for juicier meat.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken breasts before cooking.
FAQs
Can I prepare stuffed chicken breasts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day ahead. Simply stuff and secure them, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with stuffed chicken breast?
Stuffed chicken breast goes well with roasted vegetables, salad, or a side of pasta. It’s versatile and complements many side dishes.
Can I freeze stuffed chicken breast?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking. Just make sure to wrap them well and label them with the date.
How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?
To keep the chicken moist, ensure not to overcook it and let it rest after cooking. This helps retain juices.
What are some variations of stuffed chicken breast?
You can try different fillings like mushrooms, bacon, or various cheeses. Each variation brings a unique flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
Stuffed chicken breast is a versatile and delicious dish that can elevate any meal. With its savory filling and juicy exterior, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the delightful flavors it brings to your table!
Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully butterfly each chicken breast to create a pocket.
- In a bowl, mix the spinach, cream cheese, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic.
- Season the inside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture.
- Use toothpicks to secure the openings.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
