No need to cross the ocean to whisk Dad away to Europe for Father’s Day! These stuffed baked chicken breasts are filled with a savory mixture of mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach bringing the best flavors from Italy right to your dinner table. This meal is the perfect choice for a delicious and nutritious dinner to enjoy while celebrating Dad!
Ingredients (for 4 people):
4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil, drained)
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 min.
Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 min.
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well to combine.
Spoon the filling mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
Secure the opening of each chicken breast with toothpicks to prevent the filling from spilling out.
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 min. per side. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 min. or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven and let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes.
Carefully remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts.
Garnish with fresh herbs while warm, serve immediately, and enjoy!