This easy stuffed chicken breast is filled with colorful roasted peppers and creamy cheese. It’s a tasty way to enjoy a classic dish with a fun twist!
Cooking this dish always makes me feel like a chef! Just roll up the chicken, bake it, and you have a dinner that’s impressive yet simple. Who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer something different, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Roasted Bell Peppers: Roasted red and yellow peppers add sweetness. If you’re short on time, jarred roasted peppers work just as well. You can also use fresh bell peppers, just roast them quickly in a hot oven.
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture to the stuffing. If you’re looking for lighter options, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. Both will still add a nice creaminess!
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan add flavor and melt beautifully. If you’re dairy-free, try using cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese substitute. Nutritional yeast also works for a cheesy flavor!
Olive Oil: It’s great for searing the chicken, but you can use vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer. Each will give a slightly different taste!
How Do You Effectively Stuff Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing chicken breasts can seem tricky, but with a steady hand, it’s easy! The key is to cut a deep pocket but not all the way through the chicken. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a sharp knife for precise cutting. Hold the chicken steady and cut slowly to avoid making a hole.
- Stuff the filling firmly but not too tightly; you want it to stay in without spilling out during cooking.
- If needed, secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep everything inside.
With practice, you’ll master this technique and wow your friends and family with stuffed chicken! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Roasted Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup roasted red and yellow bell peppers, sliced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful stuffed chicken breast will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes total cooking time. So in about 40 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal! Perfect for a busy weeknight or impressing guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a hot cooking environment for perfect chicken!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into one side. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want to create a nice deep pocket to hold the stuffing.
3. Make the Stuffing Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sliced roasted peppers, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
Now it’s time to stuff! Take the prepared stuffing and fill each chicken pocket with it. Make sure you pack it in there, but leave a little room at the top to prevent any spilling out while cooking. If needed, secure the openings with toothpicks.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. This step adds lots of flavor!
6. Bake the Chicken:
After searing, transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer (it should read 165°F or 75°C).
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. If you’d like, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your easy stuffed chicken breasts are ready to be served! Pair them with a fresh salad, rice, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Different Ingredients in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use ricotta or Greek yogurt instead for a lighter filling. For the cheeses, feel free to swap mozzarella and Parmesan with any cheese you like, such as cheddar or feta. And if you can’t find roasted bell peppers, fresh peppers that you sauté briefly will work too!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day ahead of time. Just follow the instructions until you stuff the chicken, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake them as directed, adding an extra minute or two if they start out cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave or preheated oven until warmed through. If the chicken seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist!
What Sides Go Well With This Stuffed Chicken?
This stuffed chicken goes great with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, quinoa, or pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread for a more indulgent meal!
