Stuffed Chicken Breast

Chicken breast filled with spinach, ricotta, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Stuffed Chicken Breast:

A savory, delicious chicken dish filled with a creamy, flavorful stuffing—perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil or dry, just rehydrate if needed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the stuffing:
   • In a small pan, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
2. Prepare the chicken breasts:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through.
   • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
3. Stuff the chicken:
   • Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach, ricotta, and sun-dried tomato mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the filling inside while cooking.
4. Sear the chicken:
   • In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Bake the chicken:
   • Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on top of the chicken breasts during the last 5 minutes of baking and allow it to melt.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Discard the toothpicks or twine.
   • Serve your stuffed chicken breasts with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.

Tips & Variations :

• Swap the Cheese: Use cream cheese, feta, or goat cheese for a different flavor.
• Add Nuts: Throw in some pine nuts or toasted almonds for crunch.
• Flavor Boost: Add some red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a touch of heat.
• Stuffed Chicken Variation: Add mushrooms or roasted red peppers to the filling for extra texture and flavor.

Enjoy your meal!