Description
This recipe for Sundried Tomato Spinach Cheese Stuffed Chicken is an impressive dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful filling of sundried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and creamy cheeses. It’s a perfect option for a special dinner or a delicious family meal, offering a gourmet experience with beautiful presentation and nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, sundried tomatoes, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to seal the openings, ensuring the filling doesn’t escape while cooking.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, transfer the stuffed chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Once seared, place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and transfer them into the preheated oven.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and flavor.
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
- For an added layer of flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes before preparing the stuffing.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique taste profile.
- Depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Ensure they reach the proper internal temperature for safety.
- This dish freezes well. Wrap cooked, cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: N/A