This tasty stuffed chicken breast is filled with colorful roasted peppers that add a splash of flavor. It’s both healthy and satisfying, making dinner fun!
Honestly, I love how simple it is to make this dish, and the chicken stays juicy. Plus, any leftovers keep well for lunch the next day—if you can resist eating it all in one go! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use turkey breast instead. It’s still tasty and works well with the stuffing!
Roasted Peppers: Roasted red and yellow peppers add sweetness and color. You can use jarred roasted peppers for convenience, or roast your own. If you want a smoky flavor, consider adding some smoked paprika!
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its meltiness. You can swap it with provolone or even feta for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind to adjust the amount since different cheeses melt differently.
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil are staples, but fresh herbs are wonderful if you have them on hand. Fresh basil will give a stronger flavor, so adjust the amount as you prefer.
How Do You Properly Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken breasts can seem tricky, but it’s quite simple if you follow a few easy steps! First, make sure your chicken is thawed. Then, use a sharp knife to create a pocket gently; this keeps the filling inside better.
- Keep your knife parallel to the cutting board while cutting to avoid slicing through.
- Fill the pocket firmly, but don’t overstuff, as it might burst while cooking.
- Secure with toothpicks to hold the stuffing in place, which makes transferring to the pan much easier!
Following these tips will make your stuffed chicken a success every time!
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 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, the oven will be hot and ready when it’s time to bake the chicken!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want to create a nice pocket to hold that yummy stuffing.
3. Make the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the roasted peppers, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This is where all the delicious flavors come together!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Take the pepper and cheese mixture and stuff each chicken breast pocket evenly. Don’t overstuff it—just enough so the filling holds in nicely. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the openings.
5. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they get a lovely golden brown color.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes. You want it to be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the toothpicks gently. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like, and serve hot. Enjoy your tasty stuffed chicken!
Now you’re all set for a delicious meal. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast With Roasted Peppers
Can I Use Fresh Peppers Instead of Roasted Peppers?
Absolutely! You can sauté fresh bell peppers in a bit of olive oil until they’re soft before mixing them into your stuffing. This will enhance their flavor and make them easier to incorporate into the chicken.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check that any added ingredients, such as cheese, do not contain gluten. Most cheeses are gluten-free, but it’s a good idea to double-check the labels!
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours in advance! Just follow the instructions up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re chilled from the fridge.
What Should I Serve With Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or some rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices. For a low-carb option, roasted cauliflower or zucchini also makes a great side!
