Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Stuffed Chicken Breast is a culinary delight that combines tender, juicy chicken with an array of savory fillings, creating a dish that is both elegant and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home. The beauty of stuffed chicken lies in its versatility; you can experiment with a wide range of fillings, such as fresh herbs, creamy cheeses, and sun-dried tomatoes, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes. Baking the chicken not only locks in moisture but also gives it a beautiful golden finish, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Served alongside a crisp salad or buttery mashed potatoes, Stuffed Chicken Breast is guaranteed to elevate any dining experience.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through one side, taking care not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with an equal portion of the filling mixture, pressing gently to ensure the filling is well-distributed. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if necessary.
5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over the tops and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Once done, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if using, and serve hot.

Servings

This recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. Enjoy the deliciously stuffed chicken alongside your favorite side dishes!

Nutritional Information

Tools Needed

• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine
• Baking dish
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Oven thermometer
• Instant-read meat thermometer

Tips for Preparing the Recipe

• Chicken Preparation: Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking. This will prevent some parts from drying out while others remain undercooked.
• Filling Ideas: Experiment with different fillings such as spinach and feta, sun-dried tomatoes with goat cheese, or a classic breadcrumb and herb mix. Ensure all fillings are well-seasoned.
• Marinade: Marinate the chicken breasts for a few hours before stuffing them to infuse additional flavor. A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs works beautifully.
• Securing the Filling: When you fold the chicken over the filling, secure it tightly using toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the stuffing from leaking out during cooking.
• Cooking Method: You can pan-sear the stuffed chicken before transferring it to the oven for a beautiful golden crust. This also adds flavor via the Maillard reaction.
• Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for at least 5-10 minutes after cooking before cutting into it. This helps juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

Skill Level

Intermediate: This recipe requires basic culinary skills such as boning and stuffing poultry, along with an understanding of meat cooking times.

Course and Cuisine

• Recipe Course: Main Course
• Recipe Cuisine: American/Italian

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

To serve your stuffed chicken breast beautifully, slice it into medallions and fan them out on a plate for an elegant presentation. Drizzle a light sauce, such as a balsamic reduction or herb-infused olive oil, over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a pop of color. For sides, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a balanced, visually appealing plate.

Storage Conditions

Leftover stuffed chicken breast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing it to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. For longer storage, you may freeze the cooked stuffed chicken breast for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Health Benefits

The stuffed chicken breast provides a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, depending on your choice of stuffing, you can incorporate vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. For example, using spinach not only enhances flavor but also adds iron and calcium, while a cream cheese or feta stuffing can provide probiotics beneficial for gut health.

Vegan Recommendations

This recipe is inherently not vegan-friendly due to the use of chicken. For those seeking a plant-based alternative, consider using portobello mushrooms or eggplant as the base, filled with ingredients like quinoa, sun-dried tomatoes, and vegetables.

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