Description
Mediterranean-inspired stuffed chicken brings together succulent chicken breasts filled with a rich blend of herbs, feta, and spinach. Seared to golden perfection, this dish offers a delightful culinary journey you’ll savor with each memorable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) mozzarella or cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) spinach
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- Toothpicks
Instructions
- Carefully slice chicken breasts horizontally, creating a pocket without cutting completely through the meat.
- Combine soft cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, and selected herbs in a mixing bowl, blending ingredients thoroughly.
- Generously fill each chicken breast with the prepared mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Secure the stuffed chicken pockets using toothpicks to prevent filling from escaping during cooking.
- Sprinkle exterior of chicken with aromatic seasonings, creating a flavorful crust.
- Warm olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, creating a golden sear on chicken surfaces for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Carefully transfer seared chicken to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven, allowing 20-25 minutes for complete cooking and internal temperature to reach 165°F.
- Remove from oven and allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Gently remove toothpicks before serving to prevent accidental biting.
Notes
- Check chicken thickness carefully when butterflying to ensure even cooking and prevent dry spots.
- Use toothpicks strategically when securing stuffing to keep delicious filling inside during baking and searing.
- Consider low-fat cheese options or dairy-free alternatives for health-conscious or lactose-intolerant individuals.
- Experiment with different herb combinations like thyme, basil, or rosemary to customize flavor profile and keep the dish exciting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg