A flavorful and satisfying dish
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ½-inch thickness
- 1 red bell pepper, roasted and diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine, for securing
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine roasted red pepper, chopped spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, and garlic powder (if using). Mix well.
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Stuff the Chicken:
- Lay each chicken breast flat. Place a portion of the filling in the center. Fold the chicken over or roll it up, and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
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Season & Sear:
- Lightly season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Optional: In a skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
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Bake:
- Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish (if searing in a skillet, you can bake directly in it).
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
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Serve:
- Remove toothpicks or twine. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot with your favorite side dish.
Tips & Variations:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or fresh basil to the filling for extra flavor.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle the top with additional Parmesan before baking.