Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken – A Flavorful Weeknight Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed chicken recipes always bring a touch of elegance to the dinner table, and this roasted red pepper, spinach, and mozzarella stuffed chicken is no exception. It combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, the freshness of spinach, and the creamy melt of mozzarella. The result is a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. What I love most is how versatile it is—you can serve it with a side salad for a lighter meal or pair it with mashed potatoes or pasta for something more filling. I once tried swapping the mozzarella with provolone, and it added a delightful smoky note that made the dish feel restaurant-quality. This is the kind of recipe that makes any dinner feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts – Large, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts are ideal for stuffing. They act as a tender, juicy vessel for the flavorful filling.

Roasted red peppers – Sweet and slightly smoky, roasted red peppers add vibrant color and balance the richness of the cheese.

Fresh spinach – Lightly sautéed or wilted, spinach provides freshness and a hint of earthiness to the filling.

Mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella melts beautifully inside the chicken, creating a creamy, cheesy center that complements the vegetables.

Olive oil – Used both for sautéing the spinach and brushing over the chicken, olive oil enhances flavor and helps create a golden crust when baked.

Garlic – Adding garlic to the spinach mixture deepens the flavor and gives the filling a savory backbone.

Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that ties the flavors together and seasons the chicken perfectly.

Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and filling.

Toothpicks or kitchen twine – Helpful for securing the stuffed chicken breasts so the filling stays intact during baking.

Directions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being cautious not to cut all the way through. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Toss in the fresh spinach and sauté until just wilted. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Stuff each chicken breast with roasted red peppers, sautéed spinach, and slices of mozzarella cheese. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside.

In the same skillet, sear the stuffed chicken breasts in olive oil until golden on both sides. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra pan juices drizzled over the top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking requires 30–35 minutes. In under an hour, you can enjoy a flavorful and well-balanced stuffed chicken dinner that looks as impressive as it tastes.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the chicken and cause the cheese to lose its creaminess.

Variations and Customizations

Swap the cheese – Try provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Add sun-dried tomatoes – For an extra burst of tangy sweetness, mix chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the filling.

Make it spicy – Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the spinach mixture for a subtle heat.

Use different greens – Kale or arugula can replace spinach if you prefer a bolder green flavor.

Bacon wrap – Wrap the stuffed chicken in strips of bacon before baking for added smokiness and crispiness.

Pesto twist – Spread a layer of basil pesto inside the chicken breast before adding the filling for an herbaceous kick.

Grilled option – Instead of baking, grill the stuffed chicken over medium heat for a smoky, charred version.

Low-carb friendly sides – Serve with roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash for a lighter but still satisfying meal.

FAQs

Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?

Yes, jarred roasted red peppers work perfectly and save time compared to roasting them at home.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Do I have to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing adds flavor and helps lock in juices, but you can skip it if pressed for time.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water before using to avoid a watery filling.

What sides go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad pair beautifully.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Secure the chicken tightly with toothpicks and avoid overstuffing.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute a dairy-free mozzarella alternative or omit the cheese entirely.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C).

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven, though the texture of the cheese may change slightly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially seasonings and cheese) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Roasted red pepper, spinach, and mozzarella stuffed chicken is a dish that looks elegant but comes together easily in under an hour. Juicy chicken breasts filled with vibrant peppers, fresh greens, and gooey cheese create a meal that is both wholesome and satisfying. What I enjoy most is its versatility—you can dress it up with fancy sides for entertaining or keep it simple for a weeknight family dinner. I personally tried this recipe with a touch of pesto inside, and it brought an extra layer of flavor that paired beautifully with the roasted peppers. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with customizations, this stuffed chicken recipe is bound to impress.

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