As a lover of easy yet flavorful meals, I’m excited to share with you my favorite recipe for Stuffed Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion with friends and family. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it, how to make it, and some great serving suggestions!
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, all wrapped up in a cheesy delight. It’s quick, easy, and packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast (4 breasts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped (oil packed)
- 3 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup spinach divided
- Optional: toothpicks for securing the filling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and carefully cut a pocket into each, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Stuff Chicken: Fill each breast with spinach, a mozzarella cheese stick, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Secure with Toothpicks (Optional): If needed, use toothpicks to keep the filling secure.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Sear the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.
- Pasta: Enjoy over spaghetti or linguine for a more filling meal.
Tips for Customization
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like parmesan, feta, or cream cheese for unique flavors.
- Herbs and Spices: Add some dried basil or oregano to enhance the Italian flavors.
- Air Fryer Option: For a crispy exterior, try cooking the stuffed chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
Q: How do I prevent the filling from spilling out?
A: Use toothpicks to secure the filling inside the chicken breast.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until baking.
Q: What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes in oil?
A: You can use dry sun-dried tomatoes and rehydrate them by soaking them in hot water or olive oil for a few minutes before chopping.Enjoy your delicious Stuffed Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken!
