Stuffed chicken breast is a timeless dish that transforms a humble chicken breast into a gourmet masterpiece. This dish has a way of turning an ordinary dinner into something truly memorable. Whether served on a quiet weeknight or as the star of a festive gathering, stuffed chicken breast has a way of bringing people together around the table.

I first fell in love with stuffed chicken during a family dinner at my grandmother’s house. She would stuff the chicken with fresh herbs and cheeses, creating a dish that was both hearty and elegant. Her kitchen was filled with the warmth of the oven, the fragrant scent of garlic and spinach, and the chatter of family members eagerly waiting for dinner. Those meals became a tradition, and now, I’ve adapted the recipe to fit my own kitchen while keeping the spirit of those cozy gatherings alive. This recipe is perfect for impressing your guests or simply treating yourself to something special.

If you’ve never made stuffed chicken breast before, don’t worry—it’s much easier than it looks! With simple ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a dish that looks as though it came straight from a fancy restaurant. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Customizable: The stuffing options are nearly endless! You can switch up the cheeses, add your favorite vegetables, or even experiment with different seasonings.
2. Elegant Yet Simple: This dish looks fancy but doesn’t require any complicated techniques. It’s the perfect way to wow your family or dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
3. Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy chicken and the savory, cheesy stuffing ensures every bite is rich and satisfying.
4. Wholesome and Nutritious: This recipe combines lean protein with nutrient-packed spinach, making it a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

How to Make Stuffed Chicken Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Start by laying each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. The pocket should be large enough to hold the stuffing while keeping the chicken intact.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This simple seasoning will enhance the flavors of the chicken without overpowering the stuffing.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The mixture should be creamy and slightly chunky, with flecks of green and red for a visually appealing filling.

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken

Using a spoon or your hands, fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared stuffing. Be generous, but make sure the filling fits comfortably inside the pocket. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling from spilling out during cooking.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step locks in the juices and creates a flavorful outer layer.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baking ensures the chicken cooks through evenly while staying moist and tender.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before serving!

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack as much filling as possible into each chicken breast, overstuffing can cause the filling to leak out during cooking. Aim for a balance between generous and manageable.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your dish.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, and look for a temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Experiment with Stuffing: Feel free to swap out the ricotta for cream cheese or add chopped mushrooms for an earthy twist.

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes

• Stuffing Swaps: Customize the filling with sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
• Lighter Option: Use low-fat cheeses or increase the spinach for a healthier twist.
• No Oven-Safe Skillet? Sear the chicken in a pan, then transfer to a baking dish.
• Double Up: Make a double batch and freeze extras for easy meals.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair with roasted veggies, salad, or mashed potatoes.
• Toothpick Tip: Count the toothpicks you use to ensure all are removed before serving!
• Leftovers: Dice leftovers and use in salads or wraps for lunch.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 35g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance. Simply assemble the chicken and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a slightly different flavor.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
The key is not overcooking the chicken. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness and allowing the chicken to rest after baking are essential steps.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Let leftovers cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap each stuffed chicken breast in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Related Recipes

If you loved this recipe, you’ll also enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Baked Potatoes 

Conclusion

Stuffed chicken breast is a recipe that never fails to impress, whether you’re making dinner for a special occasion or just spicing up your weekly meal routine. With its juicy chicken, creamy filling, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

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