Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe

If you are craving a dish that is bursting with vibrant flavors and comforting textures, look no further than this Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken. This recipe masterfully combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious filling featuring sweet roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and creamy mozzarella. Each bite delivers a delightful balance of smoky, savory, and fresh notes that will surely become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this dish is a showstopper with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation that turns everyday chicken into something truly extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes the simplest ingredients make the biggest impact, and this recipe is no exception. Each component plays a crucial role, giving the chicken a juicy, flavorful punch and a colorful, fresh filling that brightens up the plate.

• 4 medium chicken breasts (about 2 lbs): Your protein base, best if uniform in size for even cooking.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and filling.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Coats the chicken to help create a golden crust when seared.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Adds a fruity richness and helps with browning and sautéing veggies.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Brings a silky richness to the searing process and enhances browning.
• 1/2 cup jarred roasted red peppers (sliced into strips): Provides a smoky sweetness and vibrant color to the filling.
• 1-1/2 cups fresh baby spinach: Adds a fresh, leafy texture and a pop of green.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a slightly spicy undertone.
• 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully inside the chicken for creamy, gooey indulgence.

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry to ensure a good sear later. Then, carefully cut a horizontal slit into each breast, about two-thirds of the way through, creating a pocket for the filling. Season well with salt and pepper, which will elevate the overall flavor without overpowering the delicate ingredients inside. To get a beautifully browned crust, dredge the chicken lightly in flour, shaking off any excess so it doesn’t clump.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Grab a large oven-safe skillet and heat one tablespoon of olive oil with a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. The shimmering oil and melting butter create the perfect surface for searing. Place your chicken breasts in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, just enough to develop a golden crust that locks in juices. Once browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside – but keep that skillet handy because it’s about to get busy with flavor!

Step 3: Make the Filling

To build that wonderful filling, use the same skillet with the remaining olive oil. Toss in the roasted red pepper strips and fresh spinach, sautéing them until the spinach wilts down – about 3 to 5 minutes. Then add the garlic, sautéing for just another minute until it’s fragrant and tempting. This mixture brings a fantastic combination of sweetness, earthiness, and warmth. Season it with a little salt and pepper to taste, then scoop it into a small bowl to prepare for stuffing.

Step 4: Stuff and Bake

Take your chicken breasts off the heat and stuff each pocket with a slice of fresh mozzarella followed by a generous spoonful of the roasted red pepper and spinach filling. Use toothpicks to secure the pockets so nothing escapes during baking. Slide the skillet into a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Before serving, don’t forget to remove the toothpicks to keep every bite safe and enjoyable.

How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Garnishes

To make your Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken look as good as it tastes, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely fresh note and a burst of green color. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or a light balsamic glaze for a subtle tang and shine.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with sides that compliment its creamy and smoky flavors. Consider garlic mashed potatoes or a lemony quinoa salad for some zest and texture. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts make for a hearty, nutrient-packed plate that balances the richness of the chicken filling.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests or just enjoy a bit of flair at home, slice the stuffed chicken breasts into medallions to showcase the colorful filling inside. Serve these slices fanned out over a bed of lightly sautéed greens or nestled on a swirl of marinara sauce for added excitement and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken by wrapping each breast tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or using freezer-safe containers. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep the chicken moist and the mozzarella melty, reheat leftovers gently in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave covered with a damp paper towel on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to overcook and dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use fresh roasted red peppers instead of jarred?

Absolutely! Roasting your own peppers adds an even fresher, smoky flavor to the dish, though jarred roasted red peppers are a convenient and delicious shortcut that works wonderfully.

What type of cheese works best besides mozzarella?

While mozzarella melts perfectly and has a mild creaminess, you could experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a mild goat cheese for a slightly different texture and tang.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, you can make the roasted red pepper and spinach mixture a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Assemble and bake the chicken just before serving for maximum freshness and texture.

Is it possible to bake the chicken without searing first?

Though searing adds a wonderful golden crust and extra flavor, you can bake the stuffed chicken directly; just be sure to bake a bit longer and watch closely to avoid drying out the meat.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest method is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. The juices should run clear, and the chicken should feel firm but juicy to the touch.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken recipe is truly a treasure trove of flavors that’s surprisingly simple to put together. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests with minimal effort. Give this dish a try—you might just find it becoming one of your top go-to recipes to celebrate simple ingredients done right with love and care.

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