This easy stuffed chicken breast is filled with colorful roasted peppers and creamy cheese. It’s a delicious way to brighten up your dinner plate!
Trust me, the moment you cut into that chicken, the flavors just burst out. I love serving it with a side of veggies for a tasty and healthy meal! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey breasts. They work well too!
Roasted Peppers: I love using a mix of red and yellow bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness. If fresh peppers are not available, jarred roasted peppers can do the trick, saving you some prep time.
Cream Cheese: While cream cheese adds creaminess, you can substitute it with ricotta for a lighter filling. Neufchâtel cheese is also a great lower-fat option that tastes great!
Seasoning: Italian seasoning brings excellent flavor, but you can customize it! Try a mix of dried thyme, oregano, and basil if you want to switch things up. Just adjust to your taste!
How Do I Make the Perfect Pocket in the Chicken Breasts?
Making a good pocket in your chicken is crucial for stuffing. Here’s how to do it right:
- Place the chicken breast on a cutting board with the smooth side facing up.
- With a sharp knife, slice horizontally into the thickest part of the breast. Only cut about 3/4 of the way through to create the pocket.
- Be gentle to avoid cutting through the other side. Practice will make perfect!
This keeps all those delicious fillings inside while cooking. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; you’ll still have a tasty meal!
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
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes total while cooking. In no time, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to impress your family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your chicken cooks evenly and turns out delicious!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and carefully make a pocket by slicing horizontally. Make sure not to go all the way through, just enough to create a nice space for the stuffing.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir it all together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast pocket and stuff it with a few slices of roasted peppers. Then, spoon the cheesy mixture inside each pocket, making sure it’s evenly distributed. If needed, use toothpicks to close the opening to keep the filling inside.
5. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a nice flavor and color!
6. Roast in the Oven:
After searing, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once it’s cooked through, take the chicken out and let it rest for a few minutes. If you used toothpicks, remove them carefully. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving to make it look extra special!
Enjoy your delicious stuffed chicken breast with a side salad or your favorite veggies. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Roasted Peppers
Can I Use Other Vegetables for Stuffing?
Absolutely! You can get creative with your filling. Spinach, artichokes, or even sun-dried tomatoes can be great alternatives to roasted peppers. Just make sure to chop them finely so they fit well inside the chicken breasts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives. There are many tasty vegan cheese options that melt well!
What Should I Serve with Stuffed Chicken Breast?
This dish pairs nicely with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over a bed of rice or pasta, or alongside a fresh green salad and some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.
