Imagine a cozy evening at home. The kitchen smells amazing, making you feel warm and cozy. I once decided to make my chicken dinner special.
I found a recipe for stuffed chicken breasts. It was easy but tasted like a fancy dish. The mix of creamy ricotta, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach was incredible.
Filling the chicken breasts was like being a real chef. The result was a dish that wowed my family. It made me happy and left me wanting more. Want to make this dish at home? Your taste buds will love it!
Why I Love This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe
This creamy chicken dinner is a hit in my home. It’s because of the Italian flavors, like sun-dried tomatoes and ricotta cheese. Every bite is creamy and makes the chicken taste better.
Making this easy stuffed chicken makes dinner special. It’s simple to cook but feels fancy. I love making it for friends and family.
This dish goes well with many sides. It’s great with veggies, salads, or potatoes. Plus, it’s easy to clean up, so we can enjoy our meal more.
This recipe cooks in 15-20 minutes at 375 degrees. It’s quick and delicious. The mix of cheeses and sun-dried tomatoes makes it tasty and satisfying.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 453 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8.3 g |
| Protein | 50.9 g |
| Fat | 28.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.2 g |
| Sodium | 417 mg |
| Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugar | 3.1 g |
I love making this easy stuffed chicken for dinner. It’s always a hit. Every time, it brings joy and delicious flavors to my table.
Ingredients You Need for a Flavorful Chicken Recipe
To make this tasty chicken recipe, you need a few key ingredients. They make the dish taste great and feel good in your mouth.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – These are the base, making the chicken juicy and soft.
- 4 ounces of cream cheese – This adds a creamy touch to the filling.
- 1 cup of spinach leaves – It brings freshness and color, making the dish healthier.
- ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes – These add a tangy, savory flavor to the recipe.
- 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese – It makes the chicken melt and get all gooey.
Preparing the chicken takes just 10-15 minutes in the oven at 400°F. It’s quick after searing for 3-4 minutes on each side. Each stuffed chicken breast has about 494 kcal and 52g of protein.
I like to make the filling a day ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. It’s perfect for when you’re short on time. You can also store leftovers in the fridge for 3 days or freeze them for 2-3 months. This way, you can enjoy this tasty chicken whenever you want.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Cream cheese | 4 ounces |
| Spinach leaves | 1 cup |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | ½ cup |
| Grated mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Making stuffed chicken breasts is easy and fun. I’ll show you how to make a tasty dish. First, get your ingredients ready. For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of steamed and drained baby spinach
- ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon
Then, butterfly the chicken breasts. Place each breast on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice through the thickest part. Don’t cut all the way through. Open it like a book to make a pocket for the filling.
Now, make the filling. Mix ricotta, spinach, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs in a bowl. This mix will make the chicken taste great.
Stuff each chicken breast with the filling. Use about ½ cup of filling for each breast. Roll the chicken up and use toothpicks or twine to keep it together while cooking.
Let’s talk about cooking. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Put the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes. Make sure the chicken is 165 degrees Fahrenheit inside. For a crispy top, sear them in a hot skillet before baking.
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s great for meal prep. Soon, you’ll have a delicious dish that everyone will love.
How to Prepare the Ricotta and Sun Dried Tomato Filling
Making the filling for creamy sun dried tomato and ricotta stuffed chicken is key. It needs the right mix of flavors and textures. I use ricotta cheese, sun dried tomatoes, and herbs and spices. The ricotta and sun dried tomatoes taste great together.
Start with these ingredients for the best filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup sharp provolone cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg
- Seasoning: salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (like basil or oregano)
Mix the ricotta and cream cheese until smooth. Then, add the sun dried tomatoes, feta, and provolone for a cheesy mix. Garlic adds a savory flavor. Make sure everything is mixed well and taste for salt and pepper.
Adding fresh herbs like oregano or basil can make the dish better. Some like to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
This filling makes the chicken moist and flavorful. Once it’s just right, stuff your chicken breasts with it.
You can change the amounts to suit your taste. This recipe is flexible. Feel free to try different ingredients while keeping the creamy texture.
| Nutritional Content per Serving | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 453 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8.3 g |
| Protein | 50.9 g |
| Fat | 28.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.2 g |
| Sodium | 417 mg |
| Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugar | 3.1 g |
This recipe is quick, taking less than 20 minutes. Enjoy making this delicious filling for your chicken!
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Making a fancy chicken dish at home is easy. I’ve got some top tips to make sure your stuffed chicken is perfect every time. A few simple tricks can make your meal amazing and wow your guests.
- Choose the best chicken breasts. Using 4-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts makes your dish tender and tasty.
- Close the filling holes with toothpicks. Soak them in water for 15 minutes to avoid splintering and keep your dish looking great.
- Seal the chicken in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side. Then, bake at 375°F for 16-18 minutes until it’s 165°F inside.
- Use frozen spinach for the filling. It keeps the right texture and moisture, making your dish better.
- Get creative with the filling. Try cream cheese or boursin cheese instead of ricotta. Use mozzarella or white cheddar instead of parmesan.
When you have leftovers, let them cool down before putting them in the fridge. Cooked stuffed chicken stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, use the oven at 325°F for 12-15 minutes or the microwave for about 1 minute.
Now you’re ready to make a delicious gourmet chicken dish. It’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breasts: Cooking Instructions
Making delicious stuffed chicken is fun. It’s all about prepping the chicken and cooking it right. This makes a tasty meal every time.
Prepping the Chicken Breasts
Begin by making the chicken breasts flat. This helps them cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Be gentle when handling the chicken. This prevents it from tearing. Once ready, your chicken is perfect for the creamy filling.
Searing and Baking for Optimal Flavor
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add some olive oil. Sear the stuffed chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side.
This step makes the chicken golden brown and keeps it moist. Then, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches 165°F inside.
Use a thermometer to check if it’s done. This way, you know your stuffed chicken is ready to eat.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 400°F | 10-15 minutes |
| Air Fryer | 380°F | Similar |
| Searing | Medium-High Heat | 3-4 minutes per side |
Serving Suggestions for a Delicious Stuffed Chicken Dinner
Creating a memorable meal is all about the serving suggestions. I pair my creamy chicken dinner with sides that match its rich flavors. This makes the stuffed chicken breasts even more special.
Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted to perfection adds color and nutrition.
- Fluffy Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice is great. It soaks up the creamy sauce well.
- Fresh Salad: A light mix of greens with tangy vinaigrette balances the chicken’s richness. It’s refreshing.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is irresistible. It’s perfect for soaking up sauce.
For presentation, plate the stuffed chicken breasts nicely. Place them on a platter with colorful roasted veggies around. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. This makes the dish look great and adds flavor.
These suggestions make your creamy chicken dinner a feast for any occasion. With the right sides and beautiful plating, your meal will wow everyone!
Variations on the Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Exploring stuffed chicken breast ideas is fun. It lets you make meals special. I like to try new things, making sun dried tomato chicken my own.
Try using goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy taste. Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for a rich flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil add a nice touch.
- Use sharp provolone cheese instead of mozzarella for additional flavor.
- Mix in finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with cooked bacon for a smoky, savory option.
- Substitute cream cheese with a lighter option, like a herb-infused cheese spread.
- Add finely chopped artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flair.
- For a spicy kick, include jalapeños in the filling.
These ideas make dinner fun and let you pick what you like. No matter what, it will be a hit.
| Ingredient | Substitution | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta Cheese | Goat Cheese | Tangy and creamy |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Roasted Red Peppers | Sweet and smoky |
| Paprika | Cayenne Pepper | Spicy and bold |
| Fresh Herbs | Dried Herbs | Concentrated flavor |
| Cream Cheese | Herb-Infused Cheese Spread | Fleeting flavor notes |
By trying different ingredients, you can change a simple recipe into something special. Try these ideas and discover new flavors and fun ways to cook.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Special Occasions
My favorite recipe for special gatherings is creamy sun dried tomato and ricotta stuffed chicken breasts. It’s full of flavor and makes a big impression. It’s easy to make, perfect for busy times or fancy dinners.
The dish looks amazing when you slice it diagonally. It shows off the bright colors of the filling. Serving it with different sides like grains or salads makes the meal even better.
Health-conscious guests will love it because it’s low in calories and carbs. I use fresh mozzarella, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition. Each bite is juicy and full of taste.
This recipe is great for making memories. It brings everyone together, sparking laughter and conversations. It’s the perfect dish for special moments.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This creamy sun dried tomato and ricotta stuffed chicken is tasty and healthy. It’s great for a meal that’s good for you. It serves four, making it a big but balanced meal.
Knowing the nutritional info is key for a balanced diet. This recipe is a good choice for that.
Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients in this healthy stuffed chicken:
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 45g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Calcium | 15% Daily Value |
| Sodium | 550mg |
The ingredients make this dish healthy. Chicken is full of protein, which helps muscles and health. Ricotta cheese adds calcium for strong bones.
Sun dried tomatoes add vitamins and antioxidants. They also make the dish taste great.
Adding spinach and herbs makes it even healthier. It also adds color and taste. This makes it perfect for family meals or dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Stuffed Chicken
When I started making stuffed chicken, I learned some key things. One big mistake is overstuffing the chicken. This can make it cook unevenly and might not be fully cooked in the middle.
It’s better to stuff it just right. This way, the chicken cooks well all over.
Seasoning is also very important. Not using enough salt, garlic powder, or onion powder can make the chicken taste bland. Even though the recipe gives specific amounts, always taste and add more if you like.
Don’t forget about cooking temperature and time. Cook at 375°F in the air fryer for about 11 minutes on each side. But, make sure to adjust for the size of your chicken. Cooking it to 165°F makes it safe and juicy.
