Looking to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious? Meet the Sun Dried Tomato Spinach Stuffed Chicken! This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, flavorful filling that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a total cooking time of 45 minutes, you can whip up a gourmet meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a horizontal pocket in each chicken breast by slicing into the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped fresh spinach. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the prepared cheese and vegetable mixture, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed.
- Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening of each stuffed chicken breast, preventing the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Carefully remove toothpicks or twine, plate the chicken, and garnish with additional fresh spinach leaves if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken Breasts: Look for chicken breasts that are uniform in size for even cooking. If they are particularly thick, consider pounding them slightly to ensure they cook evenly.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your filling. If you can find sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, they can add an extra layer of richness.
- Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken breasts in a hot skillet before baking helps to lock in moisture and creates a beautiful golden crust, adding texture and flavor.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: A simple garnish of fresh spinach or a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan can elevate the dish's presentation and make it even more appealing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 120mg
