Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering dish that will make your taste buds dance and your dinner guests beg for seconds! These Chicken Breasts Stuffed with Zucchini, Roasted Red Pepper, and Goat Cheese are not just a meal - they're a culinary adventure that combines Mediterranean flavors, elegant presentation, and incredible taste in one stunning dish. Imagine cutting into a perfectly cooked chicken breast to reveal a creamy, vibrant filling that promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by creating a pocket: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally into the thickest part of each chicken breast, creating a deep pocket without cutting all the way through.
- In a medium bowl, mix diced zucchini, chopped roasted red peppers, and crumbled goat cheese. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Generously stuff each chicken breast pocket with the zucchini, red pepper, and goat cheese mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Secure the opening of each stuffed chicken breast with toothpicks to prevent the filling from falling out during cooking.
- Brush the exterior of each chicken breast with olive oil and season the outside with salt and pepper.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Toothpick Trick: When securing the chicken breast pocket, insert toothpicks at an angle to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Even Distribution: Take your time when stuffing the chicken to ensure the filling is evenly spread for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Room Temperature Matters: Let your chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure more even cooking.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
- Fresh Herbs Finale: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a bright, fresh finish to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 266kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 130mg
