This stuffed chicken breast is a yummy treat! Filled with juicy roasted peppers and your favorite cheese, it’s packed with flavor in every bite.
Whenever I make this dish, my family can’t get enough! It’s the perfect way to impress friends or just enjoy a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it’s easy to make—win-win!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you have skin-on or bone-in, they can work too, but the cooking time will change. You could also use turkey breasts for a leaner option.
Roasted Peppers: You can use jarred roasted peppers for convenience, or roast your own by placing bell peppers under the broiler until charred, then peeling the skin off. Fresh peppers can also be grilled for a tasty twist!
Cheese: Mozzarella adds a lovely stretch, and provolone brings a nice flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese shreds or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Seasoning: Italian seasoning is great, but feel free to mix things up. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme make this even more special. You could add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, too!
How Do I Make a Perfect Pocket in Chicken Breasts?
Creating a pocket in your chicken is key to holding that delicious filling. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Place the chicken breast flat on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice into the side of the breast, about 3/4 of the way through, creating a pocket.
- Avoid cutting all the way through to keep the filling from spilling out.
Take your time with this step! A well-made pocket ensures your filling stays inside and flavors the chicken beautifully.
Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast With Roasted Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup roasted red and yellow bell peppers, sliced (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. Total, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s hot and ready for your chicken, getting that perfect cook.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and carefully slice a pocket into the side. Aim to cut about 3/4 of the way through to hold the stuffing without cutting all the way through. This part is key!
3. Make the Filling:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the roasted peppers, shredded cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. This delicious mixture will add lots of flavor to your chicken!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Now, take the pepper and cheese mixture and stuff it into each chicken breast pocket. If needed, secure the opening with toothpicks to keep everything inside while cooking.
5. Season and Sear:
Add salt and pepper to the outside of the chicken. In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat, and then add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Once seared, transfer the skillet directly to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let It Rest:
After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and take out the toothpicks. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
8. Serve:
Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you’d like, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious stuffed chicken breast with roasted peppers!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast With Roasted Peppers
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts For This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before preparation. You can thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat dry before slicing and stuffing!
What Can I Substitute For Roasted Peppers?
If you don’t have roasted peppers, you can use fresh bell peppers instead. Simply chop them finely and sauté them in a little olive oil to soften them before mixing with the cheese. For a different flavor, consider using sun-dried tomatoes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven, wrapped in foil, to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook them. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.
