This easy stuffed chicken breast is filled with roasted peppers and cheese, making it a colorful and tasty dish. Perfect for a family dinner or impressing friends!
I love how the juicy chicken pairs with the sweet roasted peppers. It’s like a flavor party! Plus, it’s simple to make, so I get more time to relax after cooking. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for stuffing. If you prefer, you can use turkey breasts or chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Roasted Peppers: You can use jarred roasted peppers for convenience, or roast your own. For a twist, consider using jalapeños for heat or any other colorful bell peppers you like.
Mozzarella Cheese: While mozzarella adds great meltiness, you could swap it for provolone or even feta for a tangier flavor. Just keep in mind how the cheese melts!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its flavor, but you can use vegetable oil or butter if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Properly Stuff Chicken Breasts?
Getting the stuffing technique right is key to keeping your chicken juicy. Here’s a simple guide:
- Use a sharp knife to slice a pocket into the chicken breast. Do this gently to avoid cutting all the way through.
- Be generous while stuffing; you want a good amount of filling, but don’t overstuff. It could burst open while cooking.
- Secure the pocket with toothpicks or kitchen twine. This keeps everything neatly packed while baking.
- Give a quick sear in a hot skillet. This locks in moisture and adds a nice crust, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast With Roasted Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup roasted red and yellow bell peppers, sliced (jarred or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes, with minimal effort for a delicious, home-cooked meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken will cook evenly once it’s in.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your sharp knife and carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Just cut deep enough to create a pouch—don’t slice all the way through!
3. Make the Stuffing:
In a bowl, combine the sliced roasted peppers, shredded mozzarella cheese, and minced garlic. Mix everything together and season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Generously fill each chicken pocket with the pepper and cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—you want it to be packed, but not overflowing!
5. Secure the Stuffing:
Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the openings of the stuffed chicken breasts. This will keep your tasty filling inside while they cook.
6. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step adds delicious flavor and texture!
7. Season and Bake:
Now sprinkle the chicken breasts with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Then, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until it is cooked through and the cheese inside is bubbly and melted.
8. Rest and Serve:
After baking, carefully remove the skillet from the oven (it will be hot!). Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes, then gently remove the toothpicks or twine. They’re now ready to serve!
9. Enjoy:
Serve the stuffed chicken hot, alongside your favorite sides. You can add some extra roasted peppers on top for an additional pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast With Roasted Peppers
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for melting, you can experiment with provolone, feta, or even goat cheese for different flavors. Just keep in mind that some cheeses may alter the texture and taste of the dish.
What Can I Substitute for Roasted Peppers?
If you don’t have roasted peppers, you can use fresh bell peppers. Just sauté them briefly until they’re tender before adding them to your stuffing. You can also consider using sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for a different twist!
How Do I Know When the Chicken Is Done Cooking?
The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut into a chicken breast, and ensure the meat is no longer pink and juices run clear.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts in advance. Just cover them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready, just sear and bake as directed!
