Description
Succulent chicken breasts reveal a Mediterranean-inspired “Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Cheese Stuffed Chicken” with luxurious flavor combinations. Juicy chicken promises a delightful culinary experience you can savor with elegant simplicity.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Filling Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup (40 grams) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup (30 grams) fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup (56 grams) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup (25 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
Seasoning and Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Toothpicks (for sealing the chicken)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven to 375°F, ensuring optimal cooking temperature for the chicken.
- Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally, creating a delicate pocket without completely separating the halves.
- Combine sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, crushed garlic, and Italian herbs in a mixing bowl, blending flavors thoroughly.
- Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Secure the stuffed chicken openings using toothpicks to prevent filling from escaping during cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, creating a perfect searing surface.
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper, enhancing the natural flavors.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, developing a golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven, continuing cooking for 20-25 minutes.
- Verify chicken is fully cooked by checking that the center is no longer pink and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Carefully remove toothpicks before serving to prevent any unexpected bites.
Notes
- Check chicken thickness before butterflying to ensure even cooking and prevent dryness.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for more vibrant flavor and aromatic profile.
- Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown sear.
- For a low-carb option, substitute cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free alternatives to accommodate different dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg