This stuffed chicken breast is filled with delicious roasted peppers and creamy cheese. It’s juicy, colorful, and super simple to make! Perfect for a tasty dinner.
Whenever I make this, the kitchen smells amazing! I love serving it with a side of salad for a fresh touch. It’s an easy meal that always impresses!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. They’re easy to stuff and cook quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs can be used, as they tend to be juicier.
Roasted Peppers: You can use store-bought roasted peppers for convenience. If you want to make your own, just roast fresh bell peppers until they’re blackened and then peel off the skin. For a twist, try using different colors of peppers or even sun-dried tomatoes!
Cheese: Mozzarella offers a gooey texture perfect for stuffing. If you prefer a sharper flavor, provolone or feta cheese are great alternatives. Vegan cheese options work too if you’re looking to keep it plant-based.
Seasoning: Italian seasoning brings out the flavors beautifully. You can substitute with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or even a bit of lemon zest for brightness!
How Do I Perfectly Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken breasts may sound tricky, but with a few simple steps, it’s easy! First, ensure you have a sharp knife and carefully create a pocket in the breast. Don’t go all the way through—just enough to hold the filling.
- Make sure to use enough filling but avoid overstuffing. This helps prevent spilling out during cooking.
- Secure the opening with toothpicks or twine. This keeps your stuffing intact while searing and baking.
- When searing, ensure your skillet is hot for a nice golden crust. This adds flavor and helps seal the chicken.
- Using an oven-safe skillet allows for easy transition from stovetop to oven, ensuring even cooking.
With these tips, your stuffed chicken breasts will be not only delicious but also beautifully presented!
Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast With Roasted Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup roasted red and yellow bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 25-30 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes for this scrumptious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and then pat them dry with a paper towel. Carefully use a sharp knife to cut a pocket through the side of each breast—make sure not to slice all the way through; you want to make a nice little pouch for your stuffing!
3. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced roasted peppers, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This colorful filling is where the flavor comes alive!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Take your pepper and cheese mixture and stuff each chicken breast pocket generously. Don’t overfill them—just enough to be delicious! Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine, making sure the stuffing stays inside during cooking.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. This step helps to lock in all those tasty flavors!
6. Bake:
After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.
7. Ready to Serve:
Once cooked, take the chicken out and let it rest for a few minutes. Remove any toothpicks or twine before serving. For a little extra flair, sprinkle fresh parsley on top!
8. Enjoy:
Serve your stuffed chicken breast hot with your favorite sides, like a crisp salad or some roasted vegetables. Enjoy the flavorful combination of juicy chicken and delicious roasted peppers!
Bon appétit!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and provolone are great choices, feel free to get creative. Cheddar, feta, or even goat cheese can add a unique flavor to your stuffed chicken. Just keep in mind that softer cheeses may melt differently!
What If I Don’t Have Roasted Peppers?
No worries! You can easily roast your own peppers by placing them over an open flame or under a broiler until the skins are charred. Once they’re cool enough to handle, peel off the skin and slice them up. Alternatively, you can use fresh bell peppers, sautéed until soft.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t use any flour or bread crumbs. Just ensure that the seasonings and any cheese you use are certified gluten-free, especially if you’re using packaged products.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. If you want to freeze it, wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
