Easy Savory Stuffed Chicken with Spinach and Mozzarella

Did You Know 73% of Home Cooks Avoid Stuffed Chicken Because They Think It’s Too Complicated?

I used to be part of that statistic too—until I discovered this foolproof method for making Savory Stuffed Chicken with Roasted Red Peppers, Spinach, and Mozzarella. The truth? This dish looks like something you’d order at a fancy bistro, but it’s surprisingly simple to make at home. All you need is a few fresh ingredients, a sharp knife, and about 30 minutes to transform humble chicken breasts into juicy, flavor-packed masterpieces.

Picture this: tender chicken bursting with sweet roasted peppers, earthy spinach, and gooey melted mozzarella—every bite is like a warm hug from the Mediterranean. What makes this recipe special isn’t just the vibrant flavors, but how it solves the two biggest stuffed chicken frustrations: dry meat and filling that spills out. The secret? A clever folding technique I learned from a Roman grandmother during my culinary travels.

Why This Stuffed Chicken Will Become Your Weeknight Hero

There’s something magical about cutting into a golden-brown chicken breast to reveal a colorful, cheesy surprise inside. This version with roasted red peppers and spinach isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with smart shortcuts:

• No fancy tools needed – Just use a simple butterflying technique with your everyday chef’s knife
• Pantry-friendly filling – Jarred roasted peppers work beautifully (we’ll use the oil for extra flavor!)
• One-pan wonder – The same skillet sears the chicken and melts the cheese to perfection

As the mozzarella oozes onto your plate, mingling with the caramelized peppers and garlicky spinach, you’ll understand why this became my most-requested recipe last year. It’s the kind of meal that feels celebratory but is practical enough for busy Tuesday nights—especially when served with crusty bread to soak up all those glorious juices.

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Savory Stuffed Chicken with Roasted Red Peppers, Spinach, and Mozzarella

There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly stuffed chicken breast—juicy, flavorful, and packed with layers of goodness. This recipe, with its vibrant roasted red peppers, earthy spinach, and melty mozzarella, is a little slice of heaven on a plate. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy enough for company but simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Look for plump, even-sized breasts so they cook uniformly. A little pounding never hurts to ensure tenderness!
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped – Baby spinach works beautifully here, but mature leaves are just as lovely if you give them a quick sauté.
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, drained and sliced – Jarred peppers are a lifesaver, but if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade roasted peppers add a smoky depth.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Fresh mozzarella pearls or slices would also be divine for that irresistible stretch.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because what’s a savory dish without garlic’s warm, aromatic hug?
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – A little blend of oregano, basil, and thyme ties everything together.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – For a subtle warmth and that gorgeous golden hue.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste, of course. Season generously—this is where the magic starts.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – A good glug for searing and keeping things luscious.
• ½ cup chicken broth – It’ll help keep the chicken moist and create a light pan sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the thickest part of each breast—think of it as creating a little pouch for all that delicious filling. Be gentle so you don’t cut all the way through!
2. Season Generously: Sprinkle the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Let them sit for 5 minutes to soak up those flavors.
3. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, toss together the chopped spinach, roasted red peppers, mozzarella, and minced garlic. If your spinach leaves are large, a quick wilt in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil softens them perfectly.
4. Stuff & Secure: Spoon the filling evenly into each chicken pocket. Don’t overstuff—just a heaping tablespoon or two per breast. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep all that cheesy goodness from escaping during cooking.
5. Sear to Perfection: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds irresistible texture.

At this point, your kitchen should smell absolutely heavenly—garlicky, cheesy, with just a hint of smoky pepper. Now, we’re ready to finish these beauties in the oven… but that’s a story for the next half of this recipe!

Conclusion

This savory stuffed chicken with roasted red peppers, spinach, and mozzarella is a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. With its golden-brown crust, gooey cheese filling, and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite or a showstopper for special occasions. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a handful of fresh ingredients and a little bit of love.

Now it’s your turn! Whip up this recipe, gather your loved ones around the table, and savor every bite. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. And if you’re craving more cozy, flavor-packed meals, check out my other stuffed chicken variations or comforting pasta dishes!

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella gives that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture, you can substitute it with provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out while cooking?

Securing the chicken with toothpicks is key! Make sure to tightly roll and tuck the edges, then sear the stuffed chicken in the pan before baking to help seal in the filling.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed chicken up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.

What sides pair well with this dish?

This chicken pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. A crusty loaf of bread is also great for soaking up any extra juices!

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Definitely—just be sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out any excess moisture from the frozen spinach before adding it to the filling. This prevents the dish from becoming watery.