Feta Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken
Introduction
This Feta Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken recipe is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the tangy flavors of feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes with tender chicken. It’s perfect for a light dinner or a wholesome lunch, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare yet impressively delicious, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (use oil-packed for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Toothpicks (to secure the chicken)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through. This will create space for the filling.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and chopped spinach. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Season the filling with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
3. Stuff the Chicken:
- Spoon the feta and sun-dried tomato mixture into each chicken breast pocket, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed.
- Use toothpicks to secure the opening and prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
4. Season the Chicken:
- Rub olive oil over the outside of the chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle the chicken with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper on both sides for a flavorful crust.
5. Sear and Bake the Chicken:
- Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Carefully take out the toothpicks before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Add Spinach and Mozzarella: For an extra layer of flavor, mix shredded mozzarella into the filling. It melts beautifully and complements the feta and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Spinach and Feta Chicken Sausage: For a twist, try using spinach and feta chicken sausage as the filling base. Simply slice and stuff it into the chicken for an easy alternative.
- Bacon Spinach Stuffed Chicken: Wrap the stuffed chicken breasts in bacon before baking for a crispy, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy filling.
- Lemon Zest for Freshness: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the filling for a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens the dish.
Nutritional Benefits:
This stuffed chicken dish is not only flavorful but also nutritious:
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, which supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full.
- Feta Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, while adding a tangy flavor with fewer calories and fat than many other cheeses.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, sun-dried tomatoes enhance the dish with their intense, savory taste.
- Spinach: Offers vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium, which are essential for overall health.
Perfect Pairings:
- Quinoa or Couscous: Serve this stuffed chicken over a bed of quinoa or couscous to soak up the flavorful juices and create a balanced meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus pair beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors of the chicken.
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed chicken.
Final Thoughts:
This Feta Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Chicken is the perfect recipe for those seeking a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. With its combination of tangy feta, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, it’s a dish that delivers Mediterranean flavors in every bite. Whether you serve it for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy experimenting with the variations and create a dish that fits your taste perfectly!
A different option to try, Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breasts.
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