Name: Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Ensure they're even in thickness for uniform cooking.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor; adjust according to taste.); 1 teaspoon Black pepper (Freshly ground is preferred for better flavor.); 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese (Provides creaminess; substitute with any melting cheese if desired.); ½ cup Roasted red peppers, chopped (Adds sweetness; fresh peppers can be roasted.); ¼ cup Fresh basil, chopped (Can be swapped for parsley or omitted.); 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (Optional; adjust based on spice preference.); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (Substitute with fresh garlic.); 1 teaspoon Onion powder (Can be replaced with sautéed fresh onions.); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (Substitute with dried herbs if desired.); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Replace with avocado oil for a different flavor.); ½ cup Chicken broth (Vegetable broth offers a lighter option.); 1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar (Substitute with lemon juice for a brighter twist.); 2 cloves Garlic, minced (You can also use garlic powder as a substitute.)

The aroma wafting through my kitchen transports me to a quaint Italian bistro with every sizzle of the pan. Today, I’m delighted to share my take on Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken, a meal that never fails to impress family and friends. This dish is a culinary dream; it’s not only simple to whip up, but it also elevates your weeknight dinners into something special. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with gooey mozzarella and sweet roasted red peppers, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—great for leftovers or cozy gatherings. Are you ready to create a comforting experience that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive in!

Why is this chicken recipe a favorite?

Simplicity Reimagined: This dish is incredibly straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks.

Flavor Explosion: The blend of mozzarella and roasted red peppers ensures a juicy, cheesy delight in every bite.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize your stuffing; add some spinach or switch to pepper jack for a spicy twist.

Perfect for Gatherings: It’s an impressive meal, sure to steal the spotlight at any dinner party or family gathering.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week, just like my Chicken Noodle Soup or Honey Garlic Chicken!

Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Main protein; ensure they’re even in thickness for uniform cooking.
Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust according to taste.
Black pepper – Adds warmth; freshly ground is preferred for better flavor.

For the Stuffing

Shredded mozzarella cheese – Provides creaminess and binds the stuffing; substitute with any melting cheese like provolone if desired.
Roasted red peppers, chopped – Adds sweetness and moisture; fresh peppers can be roasted for that delightful smoky flavor.
Fresh basil, chopped – Bright flavor addition; you can swap it for parsley or omit for a simpler taste.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds heat; adjust quantity based on your spice preference.

For Seasoning & Cooking

Garlic powder – Provides savory notes; fresh garlic can be substituted (increase amount).
Onion powder – Adds depth of flavor; can be replaced with sautéed fresh onions for a fresh taste.
Italian seasoning – A bouquet of herbs for flavor depth; substitute with dried oregano, basil, or a mix.
Olive oil – For cooking and moisture; replace with avocado oil for a different flavor.

For the Cooking Liquid

Chicken broth – Provides moisture and flavor; vegetable broth offers a lighter option.
Balsamic vinegar – Balances sweetness with acidity; substitute with lemon juice for a brighter twist.
Garlic, minced – Adds a fresh flavor; you can use garlic powder as a substitute.

This Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken recipe will surely become a cherished staple in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that your Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken will bake evenly and achieve that golden-brown color. Use a reliable oven thermometer to confirm the temp, as an accurate oven temperature is crucial for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of chopped roasted red peppers, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended. This savory mixture will be the flavorful filling for your chicken, so make sure the mozzarella is well distributed throughout the stuffing.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and carefully slice a pocket into the side of each one, ensuring not to cut all the way through. This pocket is where you will stuff the delightful cheese and pepper mixture. Once prepared, lay the chicken breasts flat on a clean cutting board, ready for seasoning.

Step 4: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning generously on the outside of each chicken breast. Don’t skimp on the seasoning, as it enhances the overall flavor. Drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken to help the spices adhere and add moisture during cooking.

Step 5: Stuff the Chicken
Spoon the prepared mozzarella and roasted red pepper mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Be careful not to overstuff to prevent spillage while cooking. Once stuffed, secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside during baking. This step is important for retaining those luscious flavors!

Step 6: Sear the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet, searing for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown. This step not only adds flavor but also locks in the moisture of your Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, allowing the aroma to bloom. Then pour in ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the baking dish, enhancing the flavor during baking.

Step 8: Finish in the Oven
Bake the chicken uncovered in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C). This ensures your Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy!

Step 9: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite succulent. After resting, slice and serve your delicious stuffing chicken with your favorite sides, and enjoy!

Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists and substitutes that will make your Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken even more delightful!

Spicy Twist: Substitute mozzarella with pepper jack for a zesty kick. The heat from the pepper jack adds an unexpected depth to the dish that spice lovers will appreciate.
Nutritious Addition: Add a layer of fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the stuffing. This not only enhances nutrition but also brings a burst of color and additional flavor, making every bite even more irresistible.
Herb Swap: Experiment with dried thyme or oregano instead of Italian seasoning. Each herb contributes its unique essence, bringing a new twist to the familiar comfort of this recipe.
Cheese Varieties: Go off-script by switching out mozzarella for smoked gouda. This change adds a lovely smoky flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the roasted red peppers.
Vegan Delight: Use tofu or tempeh as a filling instead of chicken, and toss in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. This variation caters to plant-based eaters who crave a hearty meal, without sacrificing texture or taste.
Stuffed with Fruit: Incorporate chopped olives or dried figs alongside the cheese. The sweetness of figs or brininess of olives creates a lovely balance with the richness of the cheese.
Extra Crispy: Create a crispy topping by mixing breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan. Sprinkle this mix over the chicken before baking to add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy interior.
Lean Flavor: Substitute chicken broth with white wine for a lighter and more fragrant edge. This simple switch elevates your dish’s sophistication.

Enjoy the freedom of customization, and let your culinary creativity flourish! For more delightful chicken recipes, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf or indulge in the flavorful Salsa Verde Pepper Chicken to inspire your next kitchen adventure!

Expert Tips for Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Even Thickness: Ensure chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for even cooking; pounding them lightly can help achieve this.
Watch the Stuffing: Avoid overstuffing the chicken to prevent filling from spilling out during cooking; a little goes a long way!
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F; this will keep your Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken juicy and safe to eat.
Let It Rest: Rest the chicken for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent final dish.
Searing Skills: Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a fantastic depth of flavor and helps seal in moisture, making your chicken even more delicious.

Storage Tips for Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken fresh and ready for a quick meal.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the stuffed chicken tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; this is perfect for meal prep.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes) to maintain its flavorful juiciness.
Avoid Room Temperature: Do not leave leftovers at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken breasts are a meal prep dream come true! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. To maintain their delicious quality, ensure you wrap the stuffed chicken tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful dish, just sear the chicken as per the original instructions, transfer it to the baking dish, and continue with the baking steps. This way, you’ll have a scrumptious dinner on the table with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Elevate your dining experience with the perfect accompaniments that will complement the rich, cheesy goodness of your stuffed chicken.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
Velvety and buttery, these classic mashed potatoes provide a delightful contrast to the savory richness of the chicken.
Garlic Bread:
Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread offers that irresistible aroma and flavor, perfect for soaking up any sauce left on your plate.
Fresh Green Salad:
Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette introduce a refreshing balance to the melty, indulgent flavors of your chicken, making every bite lighter.
Roasted Vegetables:
Caramelization brings out rich sweetness in seasonal veggies, creating a colorful, nutritious side that pairs excellently with the stuffed chicken’s flavors.
Zucchini Noodles:
Light and low-carb, these zoodles drizzled with olive oil and herbs provide a delightful texture contrast to the beefy chicken—a trendy, health-conscious side.
Red Wine:
A glass of hearty red wine, like a Chianti, beautifully complements the savory notes of the dish, enhancing your overall meal experience.

Indulging in these accompaniments will not only complete your meal but also create moments of warmth and connection around the dinner table.

Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing boneless, skinless chicken breasts, look for pieces that are plump and uniform in thickness. This ensures even cooking. Avoid any that are discolored or have a slimy texture, as those are signs of freshness loss.

What are the best storage methods for leftover stuffed chicken?
To keep your Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its lifespan, you can freeze it. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will prevent freezer burn and keep your chicken tasty for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the stuffed chicken, and how should I do it?
Definitely! Freezing your Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a great option. After preparing and cooling the chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, wrap them again in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to label with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

What should I do if my chicken is overcooked?
If you find your chicken has gone a bit dry, no worries! One handy tip is to serve it with a flavorful sauce, like a balsamic reduction or even a bit of gravy. You can also try slicing it into strips and tossing it in a bit of warm chicken broth to reintroduce moisture. Keeping an eye on the internal temperature while baking is key; aim for 165°F for juicy results!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re preparing this dish for guests, check for common allergies. The recipe includes cheese and chicken, which may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegetarian diners. You can substitute with dairy-free cheese and use a hearty mushroom or eggplant to replace chicken for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Always communicate any changes with your dining companions to ensure everyone’s comfort!