Indulge your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic dish—our Sun Dried Tomato Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast! This Italian-inspired recipe is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Imagine tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy blend of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection. Your family and friends will be begging for seconds, and you’ll be the star of the kitchen. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will have everyone asking for your secret!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the cheese and vegetable mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
- Place stuffed chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if used.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh basil or additional chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach to elevate the flavors of your dish. The better the ingredients, the more delicious your stuffed chicken will be!
- Don’t Rush the Pocket: When creating pockets in the chicken breasts, take your time to ensure they are deep enough to hold a generous amount of filling without cutting all the way through.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! A good amount of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning will enhance the overall taste of the chicken and filling.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize the stuffing by adding other ingredients like artichokes, olives, or different cheeses for a unique twist.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your stuffed chicken with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta dish to create a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 340kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 41g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
