Juicy chicken breasts, melty mozzarella center, sautéed spinach and sweet peppers, bold flavor, easy prep, family favorite, weeknight winner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stuffed chicken is bursting with flavor and doesn’t require complicated ingredients. The gooey mozzarella contrasts perfectly with the roasted red peppers and fresh spinach, giving you a colorful and delicious filling. Baked in the oven, it’s easy to prepare and makes for a nutritious, low-carb, and naturally gluten-free main dish the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- With a sharp knife, slice a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast, without cutting through completely.
- Stuff each chicken breast with roasted red peppers, spinach, and mozzarella. Use toothpicks to hold them closed, if necessary.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture over both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Place chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks and enjoy.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Cheese Options: Try provolone, feta, or goat cheese for a different flavor twist.
- Greens Swap: Use kale or arugula in place of spinach.
- Add Fresh Herbs: A few basil leaves or chopped oregano can add a fresh, earthy touch.
- Extra Veggies: Add thinly sliced mushrooms or zucchini for added volume and nutrition.
- Saucy Option: Top with marinara or pesto before baking for more flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 325°F for about 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwave on medium power to avoid overcooking.
- Freezing: You can freeze after baking—cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
FAQs
Can I Grill Instead Of Bake?
Yes, grill over medium heat with indirect heat to ensure even cooking. Secure the filling well with toothpicks.
How Do I Know The Chicken Is Done?
Use a meat thermometer—when it reads 165°F in the thickest part, it’s ready.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach?
Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water before stuffing into the chicken.
What Can I Serve With It?
Great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a green salad.
Can I Prep This Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely. Stuff the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How Can I Make It Spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the seasoning or use spicy mozzarella.
What’s The Best Way To Keep It Juicy?
Don’t overcook—remove from the oven at 165°F and let it rest before slicing.
Is It Gluten-Free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just confirm your seasoning mix is certified if needed.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, though they’ll need to be boneless and may require a different folding or rolling technique.
Can I Cook This In An Air Fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F for about 18–20 minutes, checking doneness with a thermometer.
Conclusion
Mozzarella stuffed chicken with spinach and peppers is a flavorful, balanced, and easy-to-make dinner that’s sure to please. With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, it offers a fresh take on baked chicken that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Whether served with pasta or salad, it’s a go-to meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Discover More Flavorful Chicken Creations
If you enjoyed this recipe, explore more savory dishes that bring bold flavors and creamy textures to your table:
- Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Breast – A steakhouse classic with a rich, cheesy filling.
- Golden Chicken Chimichangas – Crispy, golden perfection wrapped around flavorful chicken.
- Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls With Creamy Cheese – Buttery rolls oozing with creamy chicken filling.
- Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken – Comfort food at its best, smothered in savory goodness.
- Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet – A quick and easy skillet dish packed with fresh herbs and cheesy flavor.
Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken With Spinach & Peppers
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Juicy chicken breasts filled with savory roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella, then baked to perfection for a cheesy, flavor-packed dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast evenly with roasted red peppers, spinach, and mozzarella cheese. Use toothpicks to secure the openings, if needed.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brush the seasoned oil over both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Arrange the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from oven, discard toothpicks, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for 30 minutes before stuffing for enhanced flavor.
- Try adding a spoonful of pesto or sun-dried tomato spread to the filling for variation.
- This dish pairs well with a side of quinoa, couscous, or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg