If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, look no further than this delightful Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a vibrant stuffing bursting with fresh spinach, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella, bringing a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures that will instantly become a family favorite. It’s elegant enough for dinner guests yet simple enough for a weeknight meal, making it a versatile and unforgettable addition to your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe means gathering a handful of ingredients that are straightforward but powerful in flavor. Each one plays a crucial role in balancing freshness, richness, and spice, all while ensuring your dish looks as vibrant as it tastes.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose plump, even-sized breasts for uniform cooking and ease of stuffing.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: A classic seasoning duo that enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves: Adds a burst of green freshness and mild earthiness to the stuffing.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Brings a tangy sweetness and chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the chicken.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts to creamy perfection, making every bite luscious and gooey.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a warm, aromatic base that ties all ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken to golden brown and keeping it moist.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant blend of herbs for depth and warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: A subtle smokiness and vibrant color punch up the flavor beautifully.
- Toothpicks: Keep your stuffed chicken neat and intact during cooking.
How to Make Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the chicken through while keeping the stuffing warm and melty inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Lay each chicken breast flat on your cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut into the side of each breast to create a pocket—be careful to cut most of the way through without slicing all the way. Season both inside and out with salt and black pepper to give each bite a well-rounded flavor kick.
Step 3: Mix the Stuffing
In a medium bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, and minced garlic. This fresh and flavorful mixture will create the heart of your stuffed chicken, with a beautiful balance of melty, tangy, and bright notes.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Now, take that tasty mixture and gently stuff it into each chicken breast pocket. Try not to overfill to make sure you can seal them up neatly. Secure each opening with toothpicks so none of the delicious filling escapes during cooking.
Step 5: Season the Stuffed Chicken
To layer in more flavor, sprinkle the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with Italian seasoning and paprika. These herbs and spices add aroma and a hint of smoky warmth that will have your kitchen smelling amazing.
Step 6: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear each side for 3–4 minutes. This golden crust locks in juices and adds irresistible texture.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
After searing, transfer the skillet straight into your preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C). This step ensures the cheese melts and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and moist when sliced.
How to Serve Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish into something spectacular. A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley not only adds a bright pop of color but also brings fresh herbal notes that highlight the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes perfectly.
Side Dishes
This stuffed chicken breast pairs wonderfully with light and flavorful sides. Try roasted garlic mashed potatoes for creamy comfort, a fresh arugula salad for peppery crunch, or simple steamed asparagus that adds a lovely green snap complementing the rich main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, present the chicken sliced on a large platter drizzled with a balsamic glaze or a light lemon butter sauce. Layer slices slightly overlapping, surrounded by colorful roasted veggies or a bed of quinoa to bring elegance and vibrancy to your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to remove the toothpicks before reheating to avoid any mishaps.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked stuffed chicken breasts by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stuffed chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to retain moisture, and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain texture and juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Frozen spinach can be used but make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture so your stuffing doesn’t become watery or soggy.
What other cheeses work well for stuffing?
While mozzarella melts beautifully here, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even feta for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is cooked through yet juicy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Italian seasoning and check that your sun-dried tomatoes don’t contain any gluten additives.
What’s the best way to slice the stuffed chicken for serving?
Slice the chicken breasts crosswise into thick medallions so you get a perfect bite of chicken and stuffing every time.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe enough if you’re looking to impress without stressing in the kitchen. It’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table with its incredible flavors and comforting appeal. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch it become an instant favorite you’ll want to make over and over again.
