Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you simply have to try this Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts filled with vibrant roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella cheese. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures—creamy, savory, and just a touch sweet from the peppers—making every bite an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this stuffed chicken is bound to become a beloved favorite.

Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the tempting flavors and textures of this dish. Each component adds something special to the final result—freshness, creaminess, seasoning, and that gorgeous golden sear on the chicken.

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These juicy chicken breasts form the perfect canvas for stuffing and flavor.
  • 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped: Adds a sweet, smoky touch and vibrant color—jarred or freshly roasted both work!
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Provides a mild, slightly earthy flavor and wilts beautifully when sautéed.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts perfectly to create a creamy binding for the stuffing.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing and searing, it ensures a golden, flavorful crust on the chicken.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth and a subtle zing to the spinach filling.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that enhances every bite.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring the dish together and balance flavors.

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant—this aromatic base is crucial for flavor. Then toss in the fresh spinach and cook until it’s wilted, roughly 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and combine the spinach with your chopped roasted red peppers and shredded mozzarella cheese in a bowl. Mixing these ingredients while warm helps the cheese melt slightly, making the stuffing extra creamy and cohesive.

Step 2: Create the Chicken Pockets

Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to form a pocket. Be cautious not to cut all the way through to keep the stuffing secure inside. Season both the inside and outside surfaces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This ensures every bite of the chicken is bursting with flavor, not just the filling.

Step 3: Stuff and Secure the Chicken

Fill each pocket with the prepared spinach, roasted red pepper, and mozzarella mixture. Don’t be shy here—generous stuffing means maximum deliciousness. If needed, use toothpicks to close the opening so the filling stays put while cooking. This step transforms ordinary chicken breasts into show-stopping, flavor-packed pockets of goodness.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Return to the skillet and heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This caramelization adds texture and locks in juices, elevating the entire dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the seared stuffed chicken breasts to a baking dish and pop it into the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes—this helps retain juices, ensuring each slice is tender and moist.

How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and freshness that beautifully complements the rich filling. You can also drizzle a little balsamic glaze for a tangy, sweet finish that highlights the roasted peppers.

Side Dishes

This stuffed chicken pairs wonderfully with light, vibrant sides. Think garlic roasted potatoes, a crisp mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette, or even a creamy risotto. The goal is to balance the richness of the mozzarella with fresh or starchy accompaniments that round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, slice the chicken breasts into medallions to reveal the colorful filling, arranging them on a platter with scattered roasted red pepper strips and fresh spinach leaves. Alternatively, serve whole breasts plated atop a bed of sautéed greens or creamy polenta to showcase the depth of flavor and texture in every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep perfectly for up to 3 days, making for a delicious next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze the stuffed chicken either before cooking (wrapped tightly in plastic and foil) or after—it freezes well both ways. For pre-cooked freezing, cool the chicken completely before packaging, and it’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain juiciness and melt the cheese back to its creamy goodness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken and compromise the texture of the filling.

FAQs

Can I use fresh red peppers instead of jarred roasted red peppers?

Absolutely! Roasting fresh red peppers at home adds wonderful smoky sweetness, but jarred roasted red peppers are a fantastic shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Is it possible to prepare this dish without mozzarella cheese?

While mozzarella is key for its melty texture, you could substitute with another mild melting cheese like provolone or fontina. Just keep in mind it will slightly alter the flavor and creaminess.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as your Italian seasoning and other ingredients are free from gluten-containing additives. It’s a great hearty option for gluten-sensitive diners.

What’s the best way to ensure the chicken cooks evenly?

Choose chicken breasts of similar size and thickness. Pounding them slightly to an even thickness before stuffing helps achieve uniform cooking and juicy results.

Can I prepare this stuffed chicken in advance for a dinner party?

Definitely! You can assemble and stuff the chicken breasts a few hours before cooking, then keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to sear and bake. This makes your dinner prep smoother and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into your own homemade Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken. It’s truly a dish that feels special without being complicated, packed with fresh flavors and comforting textures. Give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite weeknight dinner or show-stopping meal for guests. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe


  • Author: Noah
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A flavorful and healthy recipe featuring boneless chicken breasts stuffed with a delicious blend of roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is seared to perfection and baked to juicy tenderness, making it a perfect dinner option that combines vibrant vegetables with savory cheese and herbs.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Stuffing

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped (fresh or jarred)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Seasonings and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, releasing its aroma.
  3. Cook Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet with garlic and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat to stop cooking.
  4. Mix Stuffing: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, chopped roasted red peppers, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well so all ingredients are evenly mixed.
  5. Create Chicken Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally into each chicken breast to create a pocket, being careful not to cut through entirely.
  6. Season Chicken: Season both the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for balanced flavor.
  7. Stuff Chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared roasted red pepper, spinach, and mozzarella mixture. Use toothpicks if necessary to secure the openings.
  8. Sear Chicken: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, locking in juices.
  9. Bake: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  10. Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. Remove toothpicks, slice, and serve warm for a delicious meal.

Notes

  • If using jarred roasted red peppers, drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the stuffing.
  • For extra flavor, marinate chicken with Italian seasoning and olive oil for 30 minutes before stuffing.
  • Ensure the chicken is not overstuffed to avoid tearing during searing or baking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to accurately check chicken doneness and avoid undercooking.
  • To keep the chicken moist, do not overbake; remove once it hits 165°F internal temperature.
  • You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheese flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Searing and Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 42 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: stuffed chicken breast, roasted red pepper, spinach, mozzarella, easy chicken recipe, healthy dinner, Italian seasoning

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