Have you ever wanted to impress your friends with a dish that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious? Let me introduce you to my go-to stuffed chicken recipe that combines creamy, savory, and herbaceous flavors all in one bite.
I love creating recipes that bring a burst of flavor and nutrition. My stuffed chicken fillets are packed with a delightful combination of fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, complementing the creamy texture of cream cheese and Parmesan.
Seasoned with Italian herbs, this dish offers a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
Stuffed Chicken Fillets Recipe Ingredients
- Chicken breast fillets: High in protein, low in fat, promotes muscle growth.
- Spinach: Rich in vitamins A and C, provides iron, boosts health.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Add a tangy sweetness, provide antioxidants.
- Cream cheese: Smooth texture, provides creaminess, source of calcium.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds umami flavor, rich in calcium, enhances taste.
Stuffed Chicken Fillets Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Toothpicks, for securing the chicken
How to Make this Stuffed Chicken Fillets Recipe
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil.
2. Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it open horizontally, but do not cut all the way through.
3. Season both sides of the chicken fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to make the stuffing mixture.
5. Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly into each chicken breast, then fold the breast back together and secure it with toothpicks.
6. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
8. Sprinkle the dried Italian herbs over the chicken.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
10. Remove toothpicks before serving and enjoy your delicious stuffed chicken fillets hot!
Stuffed Chicken Fillets Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Oven
2. Baking dish
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Mixing bowl
6. Spoon
7. Toothpicks
8. Large oven-safe skillet
9. Spatula or tongs
10. Measuring cups and spoons
FAQ
- Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw it and squeeze out excess moisture before using. - Q: Can I substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with fresh tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but they may release more juice, so consider seeding them to reduce moisture. - Q: How do I ensure the chicken fillets are cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). - Q: What can I use instead of cream cheese?
A: You can substitute with ricotta cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. - Q: Can I prepare the stuffed chicken fillets in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare and stuff the chicken a few hours ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and bake when ready. - Q: Is there a substitute for dried Italian herbs?
A: You can use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme as a substitute. - Q: How do I prevent the cheese filling from leaking out during cooking?
A: Ensure the chicken is securely fastened with toothpicks and avoid overstuffing.
Stuffed Chicken Fillets Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be replaced with roasted red peppers for a sweeter alternative.
- Cream cheese can be substituted with ricotta cheese for a lighter texture.
- Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil for a different healthy fat option.
Pro Tips
1. Pound for Even Thickness: Before butterflying the chicken breasts, consider using a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent drying out.
2. Soften the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If your sun-dried tomatoes are particularly dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before chopping. This will make them easier to incorporate into the stuffing and enhance their flavor.
3. Add Fresh Herbs: Enhance the aroma by adding a handful of fresh basil or parsley to the stuffing mixture. This will complement the Italian flavors and add a bright, fresh taste.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure that the chicken is perfectly cooked by checking the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
5. Let It Rest: After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a juicier and more flavorful dish.
Stuffed Chicken Fillets Recipe
My favorite Stuffed Chicken Fillets Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Oven
2. Baking dish
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Mixing bowl
6. Spoon
7. Toothpicks
8. Large oven-safe skillet
9. Spatula or tongs
10. Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Toothpicks, for securing the chicken
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil.
2. Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it open horizontally, but do not cut all the way through.
3. Season both sides of the chicken fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to make the stuffing mixture.
5. Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly into each chicken breast, then fold the breast back together and secure it with toothpicks.
6. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
8. Sprinkle the dried Italian herbs over the chicken.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
10. Remove toothpicks before serving and enjoy your delicious stuffed chicken fillets hot!
