This tasty stuffed chicken breast is filled with colorful roasted peppers and yummy cheese. It’s a fun and easy way to make dinner special! Who doesn’t love a meal that looks great and tastes even better?
I enjoy making this dish when I want something quick yet fancy. Pair it with a simple salad, and you’ve got a winner for your family dinner or a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are great for stuffing but can be replaced with chicken thighs for a juicier flavor. You could also use turkey breasts for a healthier option!
Roasted Bell Peppers: The blend of red and yellow peppers adds sweetness, but feel free to use green peppers if that’s what you have. Jarred roasted peppers work too, saving you some prep time.
Cream Cheese: I love the creaminess it brings, but you could use ricotta for a lighter option. Neufchâtel cheese is also a good choice if you want to cut down on fat slightly.
Shredded Mozzarella: This cheese melts beautifully, but you can swap it for provolone or gouda if you prefer! For a dairy-free option, try vegan cream cheese and a dairy-free shredded cheese blend.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs typically found in the pantry. If you don’t have it, just use what you do have! Oregano, basil, and thyme would work nicely on their own.
How Do I Butterfly Chicken Breasts Without Ruining Them?
Butterflying chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and makes space for stuffing. Here’s how to do it without a hitch:
- Place the chicken breast on a cutting board. Hold it flat with one hand.
- Using a sharp knife, slice horizontally through the thick part of the chicken breast. Stop before cutting all the way through, leaving a hinge.
- Open the chicken like a book. If it’s uneven, gently press or pound the thicker areas to create a uniform thickness.
This technique helps the chicken cook nicely and keeps your stuffing intact!
Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Roasted Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup roasted red and yellow bell peppers, sliced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing the chicken)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 20-25 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes to enjoy these stuffed chicken breasts, so it’s perfect for a quick but impressive meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be ready when you finish prepping the chicken!
2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the middle without cutting all the way through. This will create a pocket for the delicious filling—open it like a book!
3. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Spread the cheese mixture evenly inside each opened chicken breast. Then, layer the roasted bell peppers over the cheese filling, adding plenty of color and flavor!
5. Secure the Chicken:
Fold the chicken breast back over to enclose the filling. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure it and make sure everything stays inside while cooking.
6. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, gently place each stuffed chicken breast in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
8. Serve:
Carefully remove the toothpicks or twine from the chicken. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful stuffed chicken breasts!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy stuffed chicken breasts with the sweet taste of roasted peppers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to fully thaw them first. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight or by sealing them in a bag and submerging in cold water for a quicker thaw.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just cover them with plastic wrap to keep the filling moist. When ready to bake, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
Can I Substitute the Cheese in This Recipe?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace cream cheese with ricotta, or use vegan cheese for a dairy-free version. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well for the best texture!
