If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe is your new best friend. It’s packed with vibrant colors and fresh flavors that come together beautifully, turning ordinary chicken breasts into an irresistible meal that’s rich, cheesy, and simply bursting with Mediterranean charm. Each bite offers the perfect blend of tender chicken, melty mozzarella, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and nutritious spinach, making it a satisfying dish you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring a unique touch to the dish. Freshness and quality are key here because they elevate the flavors and textures that make this dish shine.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas for stuffing, juicy and tender when cooked just right.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor layer.
- Fresh spinach leaves: Adds vibrant green color and a subtle earthiness that balances the richness.
- Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These bring a concentrated burst of sweet and tangy depth.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully for a creamy, gooey filling.
- Garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant warmth that complements the spinach and cheese.
- Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and infuses a lovely richness.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that creates an irresistible savory profile.
- Paprika: Adds a mild smoky note and a pop of red color to the exterior.
- Toothpicks: To secure the stuffed chicken breasts so nothing spills out.
How to Make Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, place your chicken breasts on a cutting board and carefully cut a pocket into each one. Season both inside and out with salt and black pepper to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Filling
Combine fresh spinach, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, and minced garlic in a bowl. This combination is the heart of your stuffing, offering a beautiful balance between creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and fresh greens.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Gently fill each chicken pocket with the spinach mixture, being mindful not to overstuff. Use toothpicks to seal the openings so that all the delicious filling stays inside during cooking.
Step 4: Season the Outside for Extra Flavor
Sprinkle Italian seasoning and paprika over the stuffed chicken breasts. These spices give a fragrant and slightly smoky crust that beautifully complements the soft interior.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, which locks in moisture and builds a delicious base flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This step finishes cooking the chicken and melts the mozzarella filling to perfection.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Allow the chicken breasts to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This little pause helps the juices redistribute, resulting in juicy, tender bites every time.
How to Serve Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top bring a fresh pop of color and an herbal brightness that heightens the flavors of your stuffed chicken.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a light side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes for a balanced meal. The creamy mozzarella filling pairs wonderfully with crisp greens or creamy textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the stuffed chicken breast diagonally to showcase the colorful filling. You can drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top for a hint of sweetness and elegance that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay delicious and can be a quick lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, wrap each stuffed breast individually in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For best results, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating in a 350°F oven until warmed through. This helps maintain the juicy texture and melty mozzarella inside.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Fresh spinach is ideal because it holds texture better after cooking, but if you use frozen, make sure it’s well-drained and squeezed dry to avoid soggy stuffing.
What can I substitute for mozzarella?
Feel free to use provolone, fontina, or even feta cheese for a different but still delightful flavor profile.
How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?
Searing the chicken first helps lock in juices, and resting the meat after baking ensures it stays tender and juicy.
Can I use different herbs instead of Italian seasoning?
Absolutely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano make excellent alternatives that add a fragrant twist.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It reheats beautifully and makes for a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare in advance.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe is more than just a dinner idea—it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and cozy flavors that will brighten up any meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this recipe promises an effortless yet impressive dish that everyone will adore. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Succulent boneless, skinless chicken breasts are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and garlic. Seared to golden perfection then baked in the oven, this dish offers a delicious, hearty meal perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Toothpicks to secure the chicken
Filling
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Create Chicken Pockets: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and carefully cut a pocket into each breast about three-fourths of the way through. Season the inside and outside of each breast with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese, and minced garlic. Mix well to distribute flavors evenly.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the prepared filling into each chicken breast pocket, making sure not to overfill. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle Italian seasoning and paprika evenly over the top of each stuffed chicken breast to add an extra layer of flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken breasts for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks, slicing, and serving. This resting time allows juices to redistribute for tender, moist chicken.
Notes
- Make sure not to overfill the chicken pockets to prevent filling from spilling during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated flavor; if unavailable, roasted red peppers can be used as a substitute.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before searing, if desired.
