As the rich aroma of garlic and sautéed spinach wafts through my kitchen, I’m transported to a cozy gathering with friends, where comfort food reigns supreme. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken, a delightful dish that marries succulent chicken breasts with the sweetness of roasted peppers and the creaminess of fresh mozzarella. Perfect for both easy weeknight meals and special occasions, this recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of pantry staples required, you can effortlessly whip up a gourmet experience in your own home. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that allows for creative twists based on your taste or what’s on hand. Are you ready to dive into flavor-packed goodness? Let’s get cooking! Why Is This Chicken So Irresistible? Unmatched Flavor: This dish boasts a perfect harmony of sweet roasted peppers, earthy spinach, and creamy mozzarella, making every bite a flavor explosion. Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks will find stuffing and cooking this chicken an effortless delight. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a family dinner or a gathering, this recipe guarantees you’ll impress your guests with its elegance and taste. Endless Variations: Want to switch it up? Try different cheeses or add herbs for a personal touch, adapting it to your preferences effortlessly. Pantry Staples: Utilizing common ingredients, you’ll find this dish is not only delicious but also convenient and budget-friendly for any home cook. Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Medium chicken breasts – Main protein source. Use boneless, skinless for easy stuffing. • Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning. Adjust to taste. • All-purpose flour – For dredging the chicken. Can substitute with gluten-free flour. • Olive oil – For sautéing and searing. Can substitute with canola oil. • Butter – Adds richness and flavor. You can use margarine or omit for a dairy-free option. For the Filling • Jarred roasted red peppers (sliced) – Provides sweetness and depth. Fresh bell peppers can be used if roasting is done at home. • Fresh baby spinach – Adds nutrition and vibrant color. Substitute with kale if desired. • Garlic cloves (minced) – For aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic recommended for best results. • Fresh mozzarella cheese slices – For a creamy, melty filling. Shredded mozzarella can be used, but fresh offers better texture. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Step 1: Prepare Chicken Begin by butterflying the medium chicken breasts to create a pocket for stuffing, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, then dredge in all-purpose flour for a light coating. This will help achieve a crisp, golden exterior when seared. Step 2: Sauté Filling In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Next, toss in the fresh baby spinach and stir until it wilts, roughly 2 minutes. Finally, mix in sliced roasted red peppers, allowing the flavors to meld for another minute before removing from heat. Step 3: Stuff Chicken Carefully open each butterflied chicken breast and lay a slice of fresh mozzarella inside. Spoon the vibrant spinach and roasted red pepper mixture over the cheese, being sure to distribute it evenly. Fold the chicken closed to enclose the filling, ensuring no mixture spills out during cooking. Step 4: Sear Chicken In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring a deliciously crisp outer layer and juicy interior. Step 5: Rest and Serve Once perfectly seared, transfer the stuffed chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite moist and flavorful. When ready, slice the chicken to reveal the colorful, cheesy filling, and serve warm for a delightful, satisfying meal. How to Store and Freeze Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the roasted red pepper spinach mozzarella stuffed chicken fresh and flavorful. Freezer: Freeze the cooked chicken wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. This helps maintain its moisture and taste. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days before stuffing the chicken, making weeknight dinners even more manageable. Expert Tips for Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Perfectly Sealed: Ensure the chicken is well-sealed around the filling to avoid any leakage during cooking, which can lead to dry spots. Right Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy roasted red pepper spinach mozzarella stuffed chicken. Sautéing Spinach: Don’t overcook the spinach; it should just wilt, preserving its vibrant color and nutrients for a fresher taste. Cheese Choice: For a creamier filling, consider blending in a spoonful of cream cheese or ricotta with the mozzarella to elevate the texture. Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the filling in advance and stuff the chicken just before cooking. It’s a great way to save time during busy weeknights! What to Serve with Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Elevate your dining experience by complementing this stuffed chicken with delightful side dishes that harmonize flavors and textures. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes create a smooth contrast to the savory chicken, soaking up all the delicious drippings. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The crisp-tender asparagus adds a fresh, vibrant crunch, enhancing the dish’s overall richness and flavor. Lemon Herb Quinoa: A light and zesty quinoa side provides a refreshing balance, while its nutty flavor complements the cheesy filling beautifully. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing offer a lovely contrast that rounds out this meal with a burst of freshness. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet and tender, corn on the cob brings a delightful summer flair to the table, making it a perfect pairing for the stuffed chicken. Red Wine: Pour a glass of your favorite red wine to elevate the experience, balancing the dish’s rich flavors with its fruity notes. Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat offers a light yet indulgent conclusion to your meal, featuring coffee and cocoa that provide a lovely contrast to the savory chicken. Make Ahead Options These Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken make-ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the stuffed chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow steps 1 through 3, then cover and refrigerate. When it’s time to cook, take them out of the fridge while you heat your skillet, allowing them to come to room temperature to ensure even cooking. For optimal quality, be sure to seal each chicken breast tightly to prevent the filling from leaking. Once you’ve seared them per step 4, let the chicken rest before slicing to keep each bite deliciously moist and flavorful. This way, you can enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort! Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with this dish! Each twist offers a unique culinary adventure, ensuring you never tire of this delicious recipe. Cheese Swap: Use provolone or fontina instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile. They melt beautifully and add a new dimension to the dish. Add Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can elevate the flavor of the filling with their aromatic notes. Imagine a fragrant mix that dances on your taste buds! Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to add a hint of heat. This little kick can ignite excitement in the flavors, perfect for spice lovers. Stuff and Bake: For a hands-off approach, instead of searing, bake the stuffed chicken in the oven until cooked through. This method will be an excellent option during busy nights! Creamy Filling: Blend in a spoonful of cream cheese or ricotta for an extra touch of creaminess. The rich texture will take your stuffed chicken to new heights. Vegetable Variety: Swap spinach with kale or sautéed mushrooms for a different yet delicious filling. Each veggie brings its own flavor and nutritional benefits! Citrus Zing: Adding a bit of lemon zest to the filling can brighten the dish. The zesty notes will awaken all the flavors and make every bite refreshing. Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts to the filling for added texture. The crunch will beautifully contrast the creamy filling. These variations not only keep your dinner lively but also allow you to tailor the dish according to your family’s taste. For more fun tips and tricks, you might appreciate how to make your weeknight meals easier with other pantry staples that can brighten your culinary adventures! Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken breasts should I use for this recipe? I recommend using boneless, skinless medium chicken breasts for easier stuffing. This cut helps retain moisture while cooking, ensuring juicy results. How should I store leftovers of this stuffed chicken? Store the leftover roasted red pepper spinach mozzarella stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When properly sealed, it will maintain its flavor and moisture for your next meal! Can I freeze the stuffed chicken, and if so, how? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. This method allows you to keep it fresh for up to 2 months. My chicken breasts didn’t seal properly, and the filling leaked out during cooking. What can I do? If you’re having trouble sealing the chicken, try using toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the filling inside. Make sure to fold the chicken carefully around the filling and pinch the edges tightly before cooking. This helps prevent any leakage, ensuring a juicy, flavorful bite! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Certainly! If you or a loved one has dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, you can omit the butter and replace the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always check ingredient labels for allergens. How long does it take to reheat the frozen stuffed chicken? To reheat, first thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method prevents drying out and helps restore its juicy texture! Juicy Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken This Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 medium chicken breasts boneless, skinless for easy stuffingto taste saltto taste pepper1/2 cup all-purpose flour can substitute with gluten-free flour2 tablespoons olive oil can substitute with canola oil2 tablespoons butter or margarine, can omit for dairy-free optionFor the Filling1 jar jarred roasted red peppers sliced2 cups fresh baby spinach can substitute with kale3 cloves garlic cloves minced8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese slices or shredded Equipment skilletMeat Thermometercutting boardknife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsButterfly the chicken breasts to create a pocket for stuffing, season with salt and pepper, and dredge in flour.Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, then add spinach until wilted, followed by roasted red peppers.Stuff each chicken breast with mozzarella and the spinach mixture, then fold to close the chicken.Sear the stuffed chicken in oil and butter until golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 36gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure chicken is well-sealed to avoid leakage. Use a meat thermometer for safe cooking temperature. Prepare filling in advance for convenience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
