Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

The Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that captivates the senses with its rich flavors and vibrant colors. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a casual date night, this recipe combines tender chicken with creamy mozzarella and sweet roasted red peppers. Its versatility allows it to pair beautifully with various sides, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of roasted red peppers and mozzarella creates a delicious filling that elevates the chicken.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time, even on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alongside pasta, rice, or fresh salad to create a complete meal tailored to your preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: This stuffed chicken looks stunning on the plate, making it an ideal choice for entertaining guests.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and flavor, this recipe offers a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you achieve perfect results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Toothpicks

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: An oven-safe skillet allows you to sear the chicken and then bake it all in one pan, enhancing flavor while minimizing cleanup.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing pockets into the chicken breasts smoothly and safely.
• Mixing bowl: This helps in easily combining the filling ingredients without mess.
• Toothpicks: They secure the stuffing inside the chicken while cooking, ensuring none of that delicious filling escapes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2. ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
3. 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
4. Optional: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat.

Set aside your flavorful filling mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and:
1. Slice a pocket into each breast carefully.
2. Season both inside and out with:
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Fill each pocket you created in the chicken breasts with your prepared cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to secure each pocket closed.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In an oven-safe skillet:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Deglaze

Lower the heat and:
1. Add in minced garlic (2 cloves) and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in:
– ½ cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

Transfer your skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake:
1. For about 18–22 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked:
1. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve alongside your favorite vegetables, pasta, or salad to enjoy!

How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that offers versatility in serving. You can pair it with a variety of sides or present it in different ways to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, complementing the flavors of the chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until tender for a crunchy side that balances the cheesy filling.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

Over Pasta

• Garlic Butter Noodles: Toss spaghetti in garlic butter for a simple yet flavorful base that pairs well with the stuffed chicken.
• Pesto Pasta: Combine pasta with basil pesto for an aromatic flavor that enhances the roasted red pepper notes.

With Grains

• Quinoa Salad: Serve the chicken atop a quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and herbs for a wholesome meal.
• Couscous Pilaf: Light and fluffy couscous cooked with broth makes an excellent base to soak up any juices from the chicken.

How to Perfect Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

To achieve the best results when making Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken, consider these practical tips.

• bold Choose Quality Chicken Breasts: Select fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for optimal flavor and texture.
• bold Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your cheese filling ingredients to come to room temperature for easier mixing and stuffing.
• bold Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the chicken pockets—this helps prevent bursting during cooking.
• bold Sear Well: Ensure you sear each side of the chicken until golden brown; this enhances flavor through caramelization.
• bold Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffed chicken rest after baking; this allows juices to redistribute for juicier meat.
• bold Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices or add new herbs to customize flavors according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and richness to balance the dish.
2. Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs adds a subtle taste without overpowering the main dish.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil brings freshness and pairs well with the flavors of stuffed chicken.
4. Caprese Salad: A classic salad of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil enhances the Italian theme while adding brightness.
5. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges offer sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory chicken.
6. Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry: A healthy option packed with veggies that complements the stuffed chicken without adding heaviness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the inside of the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season both inside and out for a well-rounded taste.
• Overstuffing: Overfilling the chicken pockets can cause them to burst during cooking. Use a moderate amount of filling to keep everything intact.
• Skipping resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can result in dry meat. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
• Wrong oven temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended 375°F (190°C) for juicy results.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Not checking the internal temperature can lead to undercooked chicken. Always ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

• Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth, covering until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone or gouda for different flavors.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and stuff the chicken earlier in the day, then bake it right before serving.

What sides pair well with Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different cheeses or herbs based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with its rich flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and visually appealing dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful filling of creamy mozzarella and sweet roasted red peppers. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, as it captures the essence of Italian cuisine in a healthy and easy-to-prepare meal. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this stuffed chicken is sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine mozzarella cheese, roasted red peppers, fresh basil, and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Carefully slice pockets into each chicken breast and season inside and out with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
4. Stuff each pocket with the cheese mixture and secure with toothpicks.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Add minced garlic to the skillet, followed by chicken broth; scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
7. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serve with your favorite sides.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 44g
• Cholesterol: 130mg