Roasted Red Pepper and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Few dishes strike the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity quite like Roasted Red Pepper and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a dinner party, preparing a romantic meal for two, or just elevating a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers bold flavor, stunning presentation, and wholesome satisfaction all in one dish. At first glance, it may look like something straight from a fine dining kitchen, but the beauty of this stuffed chicken lies in its accessibility—you don’t need to be a chef to master it, just a bit of care, quality ingredients, and a desire to impress.

Stuffed chicken breast is a culinary classic, beloved for its versatility and ability to transform an everyday ingredient into something special. In this variation, the pairing of roasted red peppers and fresh mozzarella offers a Mediterranean-inspired twist that’s both vibrant and comforting. The smoky sweetness of the roasted red peppers blends beautifully with the creamy, slightly tangy melt of mozzarella. When sealed inside tender, juicy chicken breasts and baked to perfection, these flavors marry together in a way that’s both rustic and refined.

But this isn’t just about flavor. Stuffed chicken also brings an element of texture and contrast: the outer layer becomes golden and slightly crisp, while the inner filling stays gooey and rich. Each bite offers a satisfying combination of juicy meat, molten cheese, and the subtle tang of roasted peppers. A finishing touch of herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can push it into gourmet territory—without requiring complex culinary techniques.

Beyond taste, this dish shines nutritionally as well. Chicken breasts are lean, high in protein, and versatile enough to take on bold flavors. Roasted red peppers provide antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and a burst of color that elevates the plate visually. Fresh mozzarella, while indulgent, offers calcium and a luscious texture that melts perfectly when cooked. Altogether, this is a recipe that manages to feel decadent while still fitting into a balanced, whole-food-focused diet.

In this comprehensive recipe guide, we’ll go far beyond a basic how-to. You’ll learn:

• How to select the best chicken breasts for stuffing

• Tips for roasting and preparing red peppers (or using jarred ones)

• The different types of mozzarella and how they melt

• Proper stuffing, sealing, and cooking techniques

• Oven vs. skillet-to-oven methods

• Creative variations using pesto, spinach, prosciutto, or sun-dried tomatoes

• How to pair this dish with sides, sauces, and wine

• Tips for making it ahead or turning it into a meal prep favorite

• A troubleshooting guide to avoid dry chicken or leaks during cooking

Whether you’re an experienced cook looking to expand your repertoire or a beginner hoping to tackle a new kitchen challenge, this dish is an excellent addition to your collection. With just a few core ingredients and a clear method, Roasted Red Pepper and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken becomes a reliable go-to recipe that impresses every time.

So roll up your sleeves, grab your chef’s knife, and let’s dive into this flavor-packed journey. By the end of this guide, you’ll not only know how to make this recipe inside and out—you’ll also understand the techniques behind it, empowering you to experiment and create your own stuffed chicken masterpieces.

Let’s begin.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Roasted Red Pepper and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

This section walks you through the full process of preparing, stuffing, searing, and baking chicken breasts filled with roasted red peppers and fresh mozzarella. Each step is broken down clearly, with tips to ensure perfect results every time.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start prepping, make sure you have everything ready. Cooking becomes much smoother when all your ingredients are measured and within reach.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into small pieces or medallions

• 1 large roasted red bell pepper, sliced into strips (or use jarred roasted red peppers, drained well)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil leaves or spinach (optional for layering inside the chicken)

• Toothpicks or kitchen twine, for sealing the stuffed breasts

Optional Extras:

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze, for serving

• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

• A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Step 2: Prep the Chicken Breasts for Stuffing

This is a critical step. Prepping the chicken correctly ensures even cooking, maximum flavor retention, and a safe cooking process.

How to Butterfly the Chicken Breasts:

1. Place a chicken breast on a cutting board. Make sure the smooth side is facing up.

2. Hold it steady with the palm of your hand.

3. Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice horizontally into the thickest side of the breast, creating a pocket or “butterfly.” Do not cut all the way through.

4. Open it like a book.

5. If the breast is unevenly thick, gently pound it with a meat mallet or rolling pin (between parchment or plastic wrap) to even out the thickness—about ½ to ¾ inch thick is ideal.

Tip: Keeping the breasts even in thickness helps prevent dry or undercooked spots.

Repeat for all chicken breasts.

Step 3: Season the Chicken Inside and Out

Now that the chicken is prepped, it’s time to build the foundational flavor.

• Lightly season the inside of each butterflied chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.

• Do the same to the outside of the breast.

• You can also rub a little minced garlic inside the pocket for extra flavor.

Chef’s Note: Don’t skimp on seasoning—the mozzarella and peppers are naturally mild, so this step helps balance everything.

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken

It’s time to fill those pockets with the good stuff.

Inside Each Chicken Breast:

1. Place 2–3 strips of roasted red pepper along the base of the pocket.

2. Add 1–2 slices or small chunks of mozzarella over the peppers.

3. Optionally, add a few fresh basil leaves or a bit of baby spinach for brightness and color contrast.

Tip: Don’t overfill. Too much filling makes it hard to seal and may cause leaking during cooking.

Once filled, gently press the chicken breast closed.

Secure the Breasts:

• Use toothpicks to hold the edges closed (insert diagonally through the top layer into the bottom).

• Alternatively, you can tie the breast with kitchen twine.

• Lightly press the edges together with your hands to compact the shape.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken for Color and Flavor

Searing locks in flavor and gives the chicken a golden crust before finishing it in the oven.

How to Do It:

1. Preheat a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat.

2. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and let it heat until shimmering.

3. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the pan, smooth side down.

4. Sear without moving them for about 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Flip carefully and sear the second side for 2–3 minutes.

Important: You’re not cooking the chicken through in this step—just developing color and flavor on the outside.

Step 6: Transfer to Oven and Finish Cooking

Now it’s time to finish the cooking process gently in the oven.

Oven Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. If you used an oven-safe skillet, transfer it directly into the oven.

3. If not, transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish.

4. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Kitchen Thermometer Tip: Always check doneness with a meat thermometer. Insert into the thickest part, avoiding the cheesy center, for an accurate read.

Step 7: Optional Finishing Touches

Now that your chicken is perfectly cooked, you can elevate it further with a few simple garnishes or enhancements.

Consider:

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze for sweetness and acidity

• A light sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for color and freshness

• A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving

• A touch of parmesan over the top

These final additions can make your dish feel restaurant-worthy.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

You’ve done the prep, executed the cooking, and perfected the flavors—now it’s time to plate and enjoy.

Suggested Sides:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes

• Steamed or sautéed green beans, asparagus, or broccolini

• Lemon-herb quinoa or wild rice

• Mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette