When it comes to impressive yet effortless meals, stuffed chicken breasts are a top contender. This Stuffed Baked Chicken Breast recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet-quality dish, combining tender, juicy chicken with a rich and flavorful filling of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh spinach.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, a date-night meal, or a protein-packed lunch, this dish is a perfect balance of elegance and simplicity. It’s also versatile, allowing for a variety of stuffing options, seasonings, and cooking methods.
In this article, we’ll dive into why this recipe is a must-try, expert cooking techniques, creative variations, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. A Perfectly Juicy Chicken Breast
One of the biggest challenges when cooking chicken breast is keeping it moist and flavorful. This recipe tackles that by:
- Marinating the chicken in a light Italian dressing, which helps tenderize the meat.
- Stuffing the chicken with melty cheese, which keeps the inside moist while baking.
- Searing before baking, locking in juices and creating a golden-brown crust.
2. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
This dish doesn’t require exotic or hard-to-find ingredients. With just a few pantry staples like olive oil, Dijon mustard, and Italian herbs, combined with fresh ingredients like spinach, mozzarella, and sun-dried tomatoes, you get layers of flavor in every bite.
3. A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
- Impressive for guests – The elegant stuffed presentation makes it look restaurant-worthy.
- Quick and easy for weeknights – This dish takes just 35 minutes from start to finish.
- Perfect for meal prep – It reheats beautifully and can be paired with various sides for multiple meals.
4. Customizable to Fit Your Taste
Stuffed chicken breast is a blank canvas for creativity. You can switch up the fillings, add different seasonings, or even bake it with a sauce for added depth.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken & Stuffing:
- Chicken Breasts – 2 small (6oz/180g each), boneless and skinless
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – ½ cup (oil-packed, cut into strips)
- Mozzarella Cheese – 4 slices (or preferred melting cheese)
- Fresh Spinach – A handful
- Olive Oil – 2 teaspoons (for cooking)
For the Italian Dressing Marinade:
- Dijon Mustard – 1 tablespoon
- White Wine Vinegar or Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon
- Sugar – ½ teaspoon (any kind)
- Olive Oil – 2 teaspoons
- Italian Mixed Herbs – ½ teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes – ½ teaspoon
- Salt & Black Pepper – To taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Italian Dressing
- Whisk together mustard, vinegar/lemon juice, sugar, olive oil, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Butterfly the Chicken
- Slice a pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
- Marinate the Chicken
- Coat the chicken inside and out with the dressing and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Assemble the Filling
- Stuff each chicken breast with sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and spinach.
- Secure the Filling
- Use toothpicks to hold the chicken closed.
- Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 1½ minutes per side until golden.
- Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C).
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest & Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes before serving.
- Drizzle with pan juices for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Stuffed Chicken Breast):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 470mg
Secrets to Making the Best Stuffed Chicken Breast
1. Mastering the “Butterfly” Technique
To stuff a chicken breast properly, you’ll need to butterfly it:
- Use a sharp knife to carefully slice horizontally through the thickest part of the breast, stopping before cutting all the way through.
- This creates a pocket that can hold the filling without falling apart.
2. Choosing the Right Cheese for a Perfect Melt
While mozzarella is a classic choice, other cheeses can work just as well. Consider:
- Provolone – For a slightly sharper taste.
- Gruyère – Adds a nutty depth of flavor.
- Goat Cheese – A tangy, creamy option that pairs well with sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Keeping the Filling Intact While Cooking
- Don’t overstuff – Too much filling can cause the chicken to tear or leak.
- Use toothpicks to secure the opening – This prevents the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Sear the chicken before baking – This helps hold the filling inside by slightly firming the exterior.
4. Achieving a Golden, Flavorful Crust
Searing the chicken in a hot skillet before baking ensures that it has a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
- Use high heat (medium-high) and a small amount of olive oil.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 1½ minutes per side before transferring it to the oven.
5. Checking for Doneness Without Drying Out the Chicken
- Always use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking – This helps the juices redistribute and prevents dryness.
Creative Variations to Try
1. Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken
Instead of mozzarella, mix ricotta cheese with sautéed spinach and garlic for a creamy, flavorful stuffing.
2. Mediterranean Feta and Olive-Stuffed Chicken
- Swap mozzarella for crumbled feta cheese.
- Add chopped Kalamata olives and fresh oregano for a Greek-inspired twist.
3. Italian Pesto-Stuffed Chicken
- Spread basil pesto inside the chicken before stuffing it with mozzarella and tomatoes for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken
For extra richness, wrap the stuffed chicken breast in thin slices of bacon before baking.
5. Creamy Mushroom and Swiss Stuffed Chicken
- Sauté mushrooms and onions, then mix with Swiss cheese for a rich, earthy flavor.
What to Serve with Stuffed Baked Chicken Breast
1. Classic Side Dishes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, buttery pairing.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
- Buttery Herb Rice – A simple, light starch to complement the dish.
2. Fresh and Light Pairings
- Arugula or Caesar Salad – A crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy chicken.
- Cucumber and Tomato Salad – A Mediterranean-inspired option.
3. Sauces for Extra Flavor
- Balsamic Glaze – A drizzle adds a hint of sweetness and acidity.
- Garlic Butter Sauce – A rich, indulgent addition.
- Lemon Cream Sauce – Brings brightness to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can stuff the chicken breasts and marinate them up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
2. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, but since thighs are thinner and more delicate, they may need a different stuffing technique (rolling instead of butterflying). Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs take longer to cook through.
3. Can I Freeze Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Stuff the chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
4. How Do I Reheat Leftovers Without Drying Out the Chicken?
Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
5. Can I Cook This Dish in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion: A Flavor-Packed Chicken Dish You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
Stuffed Baked Chicken Breast is the kind of dish that looks and tastes gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make. The combination of melty cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach tucked inside juicy chicken creates a beautiful harmony of textures and flavors.
With endless variations, simple preparation, and impressive presentation, this dish is perfect for any occasion—from a casual weeknight dinner to an elegant dinner party.
So, whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the creative variations, this stuffed chicken breast is guaranteed to be a go-to favorite in your recipe collection!
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Stuffed Baked Chicken Breast Recipe – Easy, Juicy & Delicious!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe combines juicy chicken with a rich filling of sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh spinach. The tangy Italian dressing marinade enhances the flavor, while baking ensures tender, moist chicken every time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal, this dish is simple, satisfying, and versatile.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Stuffing:
- 2 small chicken breasts (6oz/180g each), boneless and skinless
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, cut into strips)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (or other melting cheese)
- Handful of fresh spinach leaves
- 2 teaspoons olive oil (for searing)
For the Italian Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian mixed herbs
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F. - Prepare the Italian Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, sugar, olive oil, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Add salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should be slightly thick. - Butterfly the Chicken:
Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to slice all the way through. - Marinate the Chicken:
Generously coat the chicken inside and out with the Italian dressing. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavor. - Stuff the Chicken:
Lay the chicken on a clean surface. Stuff each breast with sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and spinach leaves. Ensure the filling is secure without overstuffing. - Secure the Filling:
Use toothpicks to seal the chicken breast, inserting them diagonally to keep the stuffing intact. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 1 ½ minutes on each side until golden brown. - Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). - Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 3 minutes. Drizzle the pan juices over the chicken before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying out.
- Toothpicks should be removed before serving for safety.
- For added flavor, drizzle balsamic glaze over the finished dish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
