1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare the chicken breasts. Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through. This will be where you place your stuffing.
2. Make the Stuffing
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Stuff the Chicken
Open each chicken breast pocket and layer the roasted red pepper strips, sautéed spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese inside. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the stuffing from falling out during cooking.
4. Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix the remaining olive oil, dried Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush this mixture over the stuffed chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Sear the Chicken
In the same skillet used for the spinach, heat an additional tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds a beautiful color to the chicken.
6. Bake the Chicken
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more flavorful. Carefully remove the toothpicks or kitchen twine before serving.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Size: Try to choose chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking.
- Secure Well: Ensure the chicken breasts are securely closed to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking or undercooking the chicken.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations to try:
- Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh basil or parsley into the stuffing for added flavor.
- Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken. This detailed guide ensures that you have all the tips and tricks needed to create a delicious, healthy, and visually appealing dish every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a delicious and impressive stuffed chicken dish. Bon appétit!