A Flavorful Twist on Stuffed Chicken Breast (Spinach, Feta & Sun-Dried Tomatoes)
Chicken Capers
Ditch the ordinary and embrace the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with Sun-Kissed Chicken Pockets. This recipe elevates the classic stuffed chicken breast with a delightful twist. Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tangy sweetness, while spinach and creamy feta cheese create a symphony of textures and tastes within a juicy chicken pocket.
A Culinary Journey:
Imagine the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with every bite. This dish takes you on a flavor adventure, marrying the earthy richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the freshness of spinach and the creamy indulgence of feta cheese. It’s a simple yet impressive dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- A Flavor Explosion: Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique depth of flavor, taking this classic dish beyond the ordinary.
- Quick & Easy Elegance: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Yet, the elegant presentation is sure to impress.
- Customizable Canvas: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, cheeses, or vegetables to personalize the filling according to your preferences.
- Healthy & Satisfying: Lean chicken breast paired with nutritious spinach and protein-rich cheese makes this a guilt-free and satisfying meal.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this one-pan recipe. Simply bake the stuffed chicken breasts and enjoy!
Ingredients (for 4 servings):
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not packed in oil), chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or ricotta cheese for a milder option)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
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Prepare the chicken breasts: Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through. Open the chicken breast like a book. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
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Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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In a bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled cheese, chopped parsley, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Spoon the filling evenly into the prepared chicken breast pockets. Use toothpicks (optional) to secure the opening if needed.
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Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
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For an extra layer of flavor (optional), add a splash of white wine and chicken broth to the bottom of the baking dish.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
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Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze (optional).
Tips:
- To prevent the filling from spilling out, don’t overstuff the chicken breasts.
- If your chicken breasts are very thick, you may need to increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Final Thoughts:
Sun-Kissed Chicken Pockets offer a unique and flavorful twist on the classic stuffed chicken breast. With its vibrant filling and juicy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite for easy and impressive weeknight meals. So, ditch the ordinary, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure with this delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish!