Flavorful Tuscan Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Keto and Low-Carb Versions
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
8. Conclusion

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality dinner but want to keep things simple, Flavorful Tuscan Stuffed Chicken Breast is the answer. This easy-to-make dish features juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy mixture of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella, then baked to perfection. The Tuscan-inspired filling brings bold flavors that will elevate your weeknight dinner while still being quick and easy to prepare.

The combination of rich, creamy filling and tender chicken is irresistible, making it a perfect option for both family dinners and special occasions. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Seasoning and Cooking:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for the stuffed chicken breasts.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a medium pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

In a separate bowl, combine the spinach mixture with sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the mixture is well combined. Season with salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano.

3. Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally (not all the way through). Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stuff each chicken breast with the prepared Tuscan filling, securing the pocket with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the stuffing inside.

4. Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown.

5. Bake the Chicken

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the chicken to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.

6. Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.

7. Serve

Slice the stuffed chicken breasts and serve them with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the burst of Tuscan flavors in every bite!

Cooking Notes

• Chicken Breasts: Make sure to slice the chicken breasts evenly so the stuffing fits without overstuffing. If your chicken breasts are large, you can use a meat mallet to flatten them slightly to ensure even cooking.
• Stuffing Variations: Feel free to swap out the mozzarella for other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor. You can also add pine nuts or olives to the stuffing for an extra Mediterranean twist.
• Searing: Searing the chicken first locks in the flavors and gives the chicken a crispy, golden exterior. If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can skip the searing and simply bake the chicken after stuffing it.

Variations

• Bacon-Wrapped Tuscan Chicken: For an even more indulgent twist, wrap each stuffed chicken breast with bacon before searing and baking. The bacon adds flavor and a nice crunch.
• Mushroom Stuffed Chicken: If you love mushrooms, consider adding sautéed mushrooms to the stuffing mixture for an earthy, savory flavor.
• Tomato Basil Stuffed Chicken: Add fresh diced tomatoes and fresh basil to the stuffing mixture for a fresh and vibrant version of this Tuscan stuffed chicken.
• Lemon Garlic Version: Incorporate fresh lemon zest and juice into the stuffing mixture for a tangy, citrusy twist that complements the creaminess of the cheese.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

To make this dish keto-friendly or low-carb, simply follow these easy substitutions:

• Stuffing: Stick with cream cheese and mozzarella for the stuffing to keep the carbs low. Avoid adding bread crumbs or any high-carb ingredients.
• Sides: Pair the chicken with low-carb sides like cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, or roasted broccoli instead of potatoes or rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts in advance. Cover them with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just sear and bake as directed.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They’re a bit juicier and more flavorful, so they’ll work beautifully with the Tuscan stuffing.

How Do I Prevent the Filling From Leaking?

Make sure to secure the stuffed chicken breasts well with toothpicks or kitchen twine. You can also lightly score the edges of the chicken to help hold the filling inside. Additionally, searing the chicken before baking helps keep the stuffing in place.

Can I Freeze Leftover Tuscan Stuffed Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked stuffed chicken breasts. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?

It’s best to use fresh chicken breasts for this recipe, but if you use frozen, make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

This Flavorful Tuscan Stuffed Chicken Breast is a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality flavors into your home. With its creamy filling of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella, each bite is a burst of Tuscan-inspired goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests at a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Pair it with a crisp salad or your favorite roasted veggies for a complete, satisfying meal. Get ready to enjoy a flavorful, juicy chicken dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!

Looking for More Delicious Chicken Recipes?

Explore our other chicken dinner ideas for more flavorful and easy-to-make meals that will quickly become your go-to favorites!

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