This easy stuffed chicken breast is packed with tasty roasted peppers and creamy cheese. It’s a great dish that is sure to impress your family or guests without stressing you out!
Trust me, the combination of juicy chicken and soft, flavorful peppers is a winner! I love making it for special dinners. Plus, it looks fancy, but it’s super simple! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are best for this dish to keep it lean and easy to work with. If you’re looking for a quicker option, thinly sliced chicken cutlets also work well. Just reduce cooking time!
Roasted Red Peppers: You can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience. If you prefer fresh, just roast some bell peppers in the oven or on the grill until charred. They’ll taste even fresher!
Mozzarella Cheese: While mozzarella provides a nice melt, feel free to substitute with provolone or even feta for a tangy twist. Cheddar also works well if you’re a fan!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is great for flavor, but garlic powder can be an easy substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder if that’s what you have on hand!
How Can I Stuff the Chicken Without It Falling Apart?
Stuffing chicken can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips, you can nail it. First, make a pocket by slicing the chicken carefully along the side, leaving about an inch uncut. This helps keep the stuffing in without making a mess!
- Use a heaping spoonful of your filling for each chicken breast. Don’t overstuff or it may spill out.
- If needed, secure the pocket with toothpicks, which makes cooking easier for you.
- After searing, keep the chicken in a preheated oven to finish cooking. This helps the flavors meld and keeps the chicken juicy.
How to Make Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Roasted Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced (jarred or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stuffed chicken breast recipe takes approximately 10 minutes for preparation and about 30 minutes for cooking, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
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 you put it in the oven.
2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Carefully make a horizontal slit along the side of each chicken breast. You want to create a pocket without cutting all the way through so that you can stuff them later.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the sliced roasted red peppers, minced garlic, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until well mixed—this is the delicious stuffing for your chicken!
4. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
Take the mixture from the bowl and stuff each chicken breast pocket generously. If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the opening and prevent the filling from spilling out while cooking.
5. Season the Chicken:
Season the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This adds extra flavor to your dish.
6. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This helps lock in flavor and moisture.
7. Bake in the Oven:
After searing, transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the toothpicks from the chicken. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you’d like, and serve warm. Enjoy your flavorful, easy-to-make stuffed chicken breasts with roasted peppers!
FAQ
Can I Use Fresh Roasted Peppers Instead of Jarred?
Absolutely! Fresh roasted peppers add a lovely flavor. To roast them, simply place whole peppers on a baking sheet in a hot oven (about 450°F or 232°C) until the skin is charred, then let them sweat in a covered bowl before peeling and slicing.
What If I Don’t Have Mozzarella Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute it with any cheese that melts well, such as provolone, cheddar, or even cream cheese for a creamier filling. Just make sure to choose a cheese that you enjoy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Chicken Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts the day before. Assemble them, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before searing and baking to ensure even cooking.
