Stuffed Chicken With Spinach and Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner option, the Stuffed Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is worth considering. This recipe is easy to follow and only takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll create a delicious filling with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheese, which adds great flavor and texture. Plus, it’s packed with protein. Let’s explore how to make this Mediterranean-inspired dish that could become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, this stuffed chicken recipe is a great choice. It takes just 5 minutes to prep and only about 20 minutes to cook, so you won’t spend your whole evening in the kitchen. You won’t need to marinate the chicken, which saves even more time. The recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find, making shopping straightforward. Plus, you can customize the filling based on what you have at home. With 18g of protein per serving, it’s also nutritious. The creamy filling, thanks to spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella, offers a delicious flavor and texture. Additionally, this dish is kid-approved and family-friendly, making it a hit at the dinner table. Pair it with salads or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

History

Stuffed chicken has a rich history that draws from various culinary traditions, particularly those of the Mediterranean. This dish showcases the versatility of ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, which have been staples in Mediterranean cooking for centuries. The method of stuffing chicken breasts has evolved over time, with early cooks using fillings to enhance flavor and texture. As recipes spread, they adapted to include different cheeses and herbs, reflecting regional tastes and innovations. Today, stuffed chicken continues to inspire cooks, incorporating diverse fillings and catering to dietary needs. By understanding its historical roots, you can appreciate how traditional practices shape modern recipes, making stuffed chicken a delightful blend of past and present culinary art. Juicy and flavorful, this dish is made with a combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and cheese that embodies the essence of Italian flavors.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– 10 oz block of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes
– 4 oz cream cheese
– 4 oz feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian mixed herbs
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare an oven-safe skillet by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
Use a mallet or rolling pin to flatten each chicken breast to about ½ inch thickness. This will help the chicken cook evenly and be easier to fill.
Cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, feta cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the spinach mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian mixed herbs, and red pepper flakes.
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared skillet and cook on the stovetop over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This dish is known for its juicy chicken stuffed flavors and textures that are sure to impress your family and guests.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if used, and serve with your choice of risotto or fresh pasta.

For best results, verify you don’t overstuff the chicken breasts, as this can lead to spillage during cooking.

Additionally, you can experiment with different fillings according to your taste preferences, such as adding herbs like basil or oregano for an extra flavor boost.

Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to confirm it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

Enjoy your delicious stuffed chicken!

Final Thoughts

While preparing stuffed chicken can seem intimidating at first, this dish offers a wonderful way to explore flavors and textures in your cooking.

You’ll find that stuffed chicken breast isn’t only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. It’s a great source of lean protein, essential vitamins, and heart-healthy fats. Additionally, this dish is perfect for a low-carb and keto-friendly meal, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize fillings to meet various dietary needs. By experimenting with different ingredients, you can keep meals interesting while ensuring a balanced diet.

Remember to practice proper cooking techniques and storage to maintain food safety.

With these tips in mind, you can confidently serve a satisfying and healthy meal that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!

FAQ

Have questions about making stuffed chicken? First, flatten your chicken breasts with a mallet or rolling pin. Cut a pocket into each breast for the filling, and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

For the filling, use cream cheese, baby spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. You can also mix ricotta cheese for a richer taste. If you need, use toothpicks to secure the filling inside the chicken. Drizzle olive oil on top for extra moisture. This dish is loaded with flavor and is sure to impress your family and friends.

Bake the chicken at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Rest it for 10 minutes before serving. Pair it with pasta, risotto, or a side salad for a delicious meal. Enjoy your cooking!