This easy stuffed chicken breast is filled with colorful roasted peppers and creamy cheese, making it a tasty treat for any dinner. It looks fancy but is super simple to make!
I love how juicy the chicken turns out, and the bright peppers add a nice pop of color. Serve it with a side salad, and you have a meal that’s simply irresistible! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are best for easy stuffing. If you’re looking for healthier options, you can use turkey breast or chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture.
Roasted Peppers: You can use jarred roasted peppers for convenience, or roast your own. To roast, simply char them over an open flame or in the oven. Red and yellow peppers bring sweetness, but feel free to substitute with green bell peppers or even jarred artichokes for a twist.
Cheese: While mozzarella provides nice meltiness, you could also use provolone or goat cheese for a tangy flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.
Italian Herbs: If you don’t have Italian blend herbs at home, a mix of oregano, thyme, and basil works perfectly. Fresh herbs can also elevate the dish if available!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Stuffed and Cooked?
Stuffing chicken can be tricky, but follow these steps for success:
- Creating the Pocket: Carefully slice the chicken breast horizontally, making a pocket, but don’t cut all the way through. This helps hold in the filling.
- Stuffing: Don’t overload the chicken breast. You want enough filling to enjoy the flavors without making it hard to seal.
- Searing: Searing the chicken in a hot skillet before baking ensures a nice golden crust. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken!
- Cooking Time: Using an oven-proof skillet means less mess! Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
With these tips, you’ll end up with a juicy, flavorful stuffed chicken breast every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Roasted Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup roasted red and yellow bell peppers, sliced (jarred or freshly roasted)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes for cooking, including searing and baking. You’ll have a delicious, stuffed chicken breast on your table in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready for the chicken when it’s time to bake!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and carefully slice it horizontally about 3/4 of the way through. This will create a pocket for stuffing. Just be gentle here; you don’t want to cut all the way through the chicken.
3. Make the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the sliced roasted peppers, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and dried Italian herbs. This mixture is full of flavor and will make your chicken super tasty!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Now it’s time to fill the chicken! Gently stuff each pocket with the pepper and cheese mixture until it’s evenly filled. If the filling spills out a little, that’s okay!
5. Secure the Chicken:
If you want to keep the stuffing nicely inside, use toothpicks to secure the openings. Just remember to remove them before serving!
6. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the outside of your stuffed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, add the chicken to the skillet and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they get a lovely golden brown color.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F or 75°C internally) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven. Remove any toothpicks, and garnish your delicious stuffed chicken with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
This stuffed chicken is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Roasted Peppers
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the recipe. The best way to thaw is to place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water in a sealed bag for a quick thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can swap mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or even feta for a tangy kick. Just ensure the cheese is suitable for melting to keep the stuffing creamy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it when you’re ready to eat, ensuring it’s heated evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken, stuff it, and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a little extra baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge to the oven.
