Sundried Tomato, Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Recipe

When it comes to elevating your weeknight dinner, few dishes rival the elegance and flavor of Sundried Tomato, Spinach, and Cheese Stuffed Chicken. This recipe is a perfect combination of tender chicken breast filled with a creamy, cheesy stuffing that bursts with the rich flavors of sundried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this dish is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Packed with Flavor: The tangy sundried tomatoes pair beautifully with the creamy cheese and fresh spinach.
2. Gourmet Appeal: Looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality dish but is simple to make at home.
3. Healthy Twist: Packed with lean protein, nutrient-rich spinach, and flavorful ingredients.
4. Versatile: Can be paired with a variety of side dishes, from pasta to roasted veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Trim and Butterfly the Chicken Breasts:
   • Use a sharp knife to trim excess fat from the chicken breasts.
   • Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally, creating a pocket for the filling without cutting all the way through.
2. Season the Chicken:
   • Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, sundried tomatoes, garlic, basil, and red pepper flakes.
2. Mix Thoroughly:
   • Use a spatula or spoon to blend the ingredients into a cohesive mixture. Ensure the sundried tomatoes and spinach are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

1. Fill the Pockets:
   • Spoon the prepared filling into the pocket of each chicken breast. Be generous but avoid overfilling to prevent spillage during cooking.
2. Secure the Edges:
   • Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening of each stuffed chicken breast. This will help keep the filling inside while cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Stove-Top Method:

1. Heat the Pan:
   • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   • Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Cover and Cook:
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 8–10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Oven Method:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sear and Bake:
   • Sear the chicken in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side, then transfer to a baking dish.
   • Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Tips for Success

1. Even Cooking: Use chicken breasts of similar size to ensure even cooking.
2. Avoid Overstuffing: Too much filling can leak out during cooking.
3. Secure Well: Use toothpicks to keep the filling inside the chicken.
4. Rest the Chicken: Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Customization Options

Cheese Variations:

• Swap mozzarella for fontina, provolone, or gouda.
• Use ricotta or feta for a tangy twist.

Additional Fillings:

• Add chopped artichokes, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.

Spice It Up:

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicy kick.

Side Dish Suggestions

1. Pasta: Serve with creamy Alfredo pasta or garlic butter noodles.
2. Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, zucchini, or a fresh side salad.
3. Grains: Complement the dish with quinoa, couscous, or herbed rice.
4. Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the cheesy filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can work, but they may require different cooking times.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Secure the edges tightly with toothpicks, and avoid overstuffing.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and stuff the chicken ahead, then refrigerate until ready to cook.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of sundried tomatoes, spinach, and cheese adds layers of flavor and texture to the chicken. The creamy filling keeps the chicken moist while the searing process creates a beautiful crust. Whether you choose the stovetop or oven method, this recipe guarantees a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish.

Conclusion

Sundried Tomato, Spinach, and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a versatile recipe that’s easy enough for a weekday meal and elegant enough for special occasions. Packed with bold flavors, creamy textures, and a perfect balance of nutrients, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delectable creation with your loved ones and savor every bite!

Yield: 4

Sundried Tomato, Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Recipe

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When it comes to elevating your weeknight dinner, few dishes rival the elegance and flavor of Sundried Tomato, Spinach, and Cheese Stuffed Chicken. This recipe is a perfect combination of tender chicken breast filled with a creamy, cheesy stuffing that bursts with the rich flavors of sundried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Whether you're entertaining guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this dish is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Filling:
• 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally but not all the way through, creating a pocket. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine sundried tomatoes, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, cream cheese, and minced garlic. Mix until well blended.

3. Stuff the Chicken

1. Spoon the filling into the pockets of the chicken breasts. Use toothpicks to secure the edges if necessary.

4. Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

5. Bake the Chicken

1. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve

1. Remove toothpicks before serving.
2. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Notes

• Cheese Variations: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor.
• Sauce Pairing: A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a side of marinara complements the dish well.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken and stuffing up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.