Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken combines the tender, juicy flavors of chicken breast with creamy mozzarella and sweet, smoky roasted red peppers. This dish offers a mouthwatering blend of Italian-inspired ingredients, transforming an ordinary chicken dinner into something special. With hints of fresh basil and a golden, crispy sear on the chicken, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special gathering.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through; the pocket should be deep enough to hold the filling.
3. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. This will give the chicken a flavorful base.

Stuffing the Chicken

4. Stuff with Roasted Red Peppers: Place a few slices of roasted red pepper inside each pocket of the chicken breast. These peppers will bring a sweet and smoky flavor.
5. Add Mozzarella and Basil: Next, add about 2-3 tablespoons of shredded or sliced mozzarella and a couple of fresh basil leaves into each pocket. Gently press down to secure the filling.
6. Seal the Pockets: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to seal each chicken breast along the open edge. This helps keep the filling inside while cooking.

Searing and Baking

7. Heat the Skillet: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
8. Sear the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the hot skillet, searing for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Searing locks in the juices and helps the chicken stay moist.
9. Transfer to Oven: After searing, transfer the skillet with the chicken breasts into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
10. Remove and Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the chicken, making it extra tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your stuffed chicken with a variety of sides:

1. Pasta: Try a light lemon-butter pasta or a garlic-infused angel hair.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or asparagus complement the flavors.
3. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice pairs nicely with the creamy filling.
4. Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad balances the richness of the stuffed chicken.

Recipe Variations

1. Different Cheese: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or feta for a unique twist.
2. Spinach Addition: Add a few spinach leaves to the stuffing for extra greens.
3. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Replace roasted red peppers with chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
4. Wrap in Prosciutto: For added saltiness, wrap each chicken breast in a slice of prosciutto before baking.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken

1. Careful Knife Work: When slicing the pocket, take your time to ensure it’s deep without breaking through.
2. Do Not Overstuff: Avoid overfilling, as this may cause the cheese to spill out during cooking.
3. Searing for Flavor: Searing the chicken adds extra flavor and texture before baking.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked through but not dry.

Conclusion

This Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken recipe is a delectable choice for those looking to elevate their dinner. With its vibrant flavors and juicy texture, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy the beautiful blend of melted mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and fresh basil in each bite.

Yield: 4

Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe

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Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken combines the tender, juicy flavors of chicken breast with creamy mozzarella and sweet, smoky roasted red peppers. This dish offers a mouthwatering blend of Italian-inspired ingredients, transforming an ordinary chicken dinner into something special. With hints of fresh basil and a golden, crispy sear on the chicken, it's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special gathering.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 slices roasted red pepper (from jar, drained or homemade)
• 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, making sure not to cut all the way through.
   Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
   
2. Stuff the Chicken:
   Place a slice of roasted red pepper and a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese inside each pocket. Sprinkle with a bit of Parmesan cheese.
   Secure the edges of the chicken with toothpicks to hold the filling in place.
   
3. Sear the Chicken:
   In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
   
4. Bake:
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
   Remove toothpicks before serving.
   
5. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve with a side of your favorite pasta, rice, or salad.

Notes

Flavor Variations: Add fresh spinach leaves or a dollop of basil pesto to the filling for extra flavor.

Make It Saucy: For added richness, top the chicken with marinara sauce before baking.