Stuffed Chicken Breast

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 🐓 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 🧂 1 tsp salt
• 🌶️ 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 🥄 1 tsp garlic powder
• 🌿 1 tsp paprika
• 🌿 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Stuffing:

• 🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cream cheese
• 🌿 1/2 cup cooked spinach, chopped and squeezed dry
• 🍅 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 🌿 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Optional Garnish:

• 🌿 Fresh parsley, chopped
• 🍋 Lemon wedges, for serving

🍳 Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Season the Chicken:
   • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Create Pockets:
   • Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the thickest side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Prepare the Stuffing

4. Mix the Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, combine mozzarella (or cream cheese), chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended.
5. Stuff the Chicken:
   • Spoon the stuffing mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.

Cook the Chicken

6. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
7. Bake the Chicken:
   • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (or place the chicken in a prepared baking dish). Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serve

8. Rest and Garnish:
   • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.

💡 Tips and Variations

• 🧊 Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffing mixture in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.
• 🥓 Add Bacon: Wrap the stuffed chicken breasts in bacon for extra flavor and crispiness.
• 🧀 Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese or ricotta for a creamy, tangy twist.
• 🌶️ Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the stuffing for a kick of heat.

🍹 Serving Suggestions

Pair this Stuffed Chicken Breast with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon makes an excellent pairing.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Stuffed Chicken Breast elevates a simple protein into a gourmet dish with a rich, cheesy stuffing and bold flavors. It’s perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.