Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Stuffed Chicken 🍗🌶️
This Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and elegant dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a vibrant, cheesy stuffing. Packed with roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to impress both family and guests.
Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering stuffed chicken step by step!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-Packed : The combination of roasted red peppers, spinach, and cheese creates a savory, satisfying filling.
- Healthy & Balanced : High in protein and veggies, this dish is nutritious and filling.
- Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for any home cook.
- Customizable : Add herbs, spices, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep : Great for preparing ahead and reheating for quick meals.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
- Salt & pepper , to taste 🧂⚫
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked preferred for extra depth ) 🌶️
For the Filling:
- 1 cup roasted red peppers , chopped (jarred or homemade ) 🌶️
- 2 cups fresh spinach , roughly chopped 🥬
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or your favorite melting cheese ) 🧀
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 clove garlic , minced ✂️
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional ) 🌿
For Cooking:
- 1–2 Tbsp olive oil 🫒
- Optional Sauce : Marinara, Alfredo, or pesto for serving 🍅
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, creating a “pocket” for the filling. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the outside and inside of the chicken breasts with salt , pepper , and paprika .
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the roasted red peppers , spinach , mozzarella cheese , Parmesan cheese , minced garlic , and Italian seasoning (if using ). Mix well until evenly combined.
- Tip : If the mixture seems dry, you can add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of cream for moisture.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
- Divide the filling mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, spooning it into the pockets. Press gently to ensure the filling is packed in.
- Secure the openings of the chicken breasts with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side , or until golden brown on the outside.
- Tip : Use tongs to carefully handle the chicken without losing the filling.
Step 6: Bake
- Transfer the skillet (or place the chicken in the prepared baking dish) to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the filling is bubbly and melted.
- Optional : For extra browning, broil the chicken for 1–2 minutes at the end of cooking.
Step 7: Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Remove the toothpicks or twine before serving.
- Serve with your choice of sauce (marinara, Alfredo, or pesto ) drizzled over the top, if desired. Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients : Fresh spinach and roasted red peppers provide the best flavor and texture.
- Add Extra Flavor : Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or caramelized onions to the filling for variety.
- Make Ahead : Assemble the stuffed chicken up to 1 day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked stuffed chicken breasts in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Switch Up the Cheese : Use provolone, fontina, or feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
Perfect Pairings
This Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Side Dishes : Serve with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
- Fresh Salad : Pair with a crisp green salad or Caesar salad for added freshness.
- Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a glass of white wine for refreshment.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
(Based on 4 servings, without additional sauce)
- Calories : ~300 kcal
- Protein : ~35g
- Carbohydrates : ~8g
- Fat : ~15g
- Fiber : ~2g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a holiday feast, or a special gathering, this chicken delivers on flavor and elegance. The combination of juicy chicken, savory filling, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s as indulgent as it is wholesome.
The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the filling, adjust the seasonings, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your chicken breasts, chop those veggies, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.
