When it comes to elevating simple chicken breasts into a gourmet meal, Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a winner every time. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with vibrant roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella cheese, creating a flavorful, colorful, and satisfying entrée that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Stuffed chicken breasts are a fantastic way to add moisture and exciting flavor combinations to an otherwise ordinary protein, and this recipe balances savory, sweet, and cheesy notes beautifully. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🌶️ Sweet & Smoky Roasted Red Peppers: They add a burst of flavor and vibrant color.
- 🌿 Fresh Spinach: Adds a healthy, earthy layer and beautiful green contrast.
🧀 Melty Mozzarella: Provides creamy, gooey richness that pulls apart deliciously. - 🍗 Juicy Chicken Breast: The stuffing keeps the chicken moist and tender.
- 🕒 Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and simple steps with a big payoff.
- 🍽️ Versatile Serving: Great with pasta, salads, or roasted veggies.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade), sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (to secure the chicken)
How to Make Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the thick side of each chicken breast. Be sure not to cut all the way through.
3. Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine the roasted red peppers, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the Chicken
Fill each chicken breast pocket evenly with the roasted red pepper and spinach mixture. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening so the filling doesn’t spill out during cooking.
5. Season and Sear
Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Bake
Transfer the skillet to the oven (or place the chicken in your prepared baking dish) and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
7. Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Remove toothpicks or twine. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken
- Don’t Overfill: Keep the filling moderate to prevent the chicken from tearing or the filling spilling out.
- Use Fresh Mozzarella: For extra creaminess, fresh mozzarella balls work beautifully.
- Add Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley in the filling can brighten the flavors.
- Check Internal Temp: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
- Serve with Sauce: A drizzle of balsamic glaze or marinara adds extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for comfort food vibes.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted asparagus for a light meal.
- Toss with pasta and olive oil for an Italian-inspired dinner.
- Complement with crusty bread to soak up any juices.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Prepare the stuffed chicken ahead, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Stuffed chicken recipes can often feel intimidating, but this one keeps it simple while delivering complex flavors and an impressive presentation. The combination of sweet roasted red peppers, earthy spinach, and gooey mozzarella makes every bite a delicious surprise, and the juicy chicken breast ensures the dish is satisfying and wholesome.
Final Thoughts
Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a vibrant and delicious way to elevate your dinner game. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a date night, this dish brings flavor, color, and a touch of elegance to your table. Easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for entertaining, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand.