Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Here’s a simple yet flavorful recipe for Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, savory filling that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped (use jarred or homemade)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella, if you prefer)

• 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

• 1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want to create a “pocket” for the stuffing. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

2. Make the Filling:

   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped spinach, roasted red peppers, shredded mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste.

3. Stuff the Chicken:

   • Stuff each chicken breast with the filling mixture. You can secure the opening with toothpicks or tie the chicken with kitchen twine to keep the filling in place. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed.

4. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

5. Bake the Chicken:

   • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the filling is hot and melted.

6. Serve:

   • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Tips:

• If you want extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top before serving.

• You can serve this dish with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete meal.

• To make it even easier, you can use pre-made roasted red peppers and spinach that’s already chopped.

Enjoy your stuffed chicken! Let me know if you’d like any variations or have specific ingredients you want to add!