Transform your weeknight dinner with this effortlessly delicious and incredibly flavorful Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breast. Crafted from simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand, this recipe promises a hearty and healthy meal that the entire family will adore. Infused with the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean, each bite is a burst of sun-drenched goodness, making you wish you had prepared even more!
Say goodbye to bland chicken dinners! This Mediterranean stuffed chicken breast recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, hitting all the right notes with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, yet tastes like something you’d order at a gourmet restaurant. The Mediterranean profile, with its blend of tangy, savory, and fresh elements, has become a cherished favorite in countless households, and it’s easy to see why. With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this impressive dish ready to serve in no time, turning an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience.
Stuffed chicken is a fantastic way to elevate plain chicken breasts from mundane to magnificent. If you love the concept of transforming chicken with delightful fillings, be sure to also explore my Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken or Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast for more exciting variations.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
This Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a culinary journey that delivers on flavor, convenience, and health. Here are compelling reasons why this recipe will quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen:
- A Hearty and Wholesome Weeknight Meal: Each succulent chicken breast is generously packed with a vibrant, flavorful stuffing, ensuring a truly satisfying dish that will appease even the hungriest of appetites. It’s robust enough to be a standalone meal but also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or grain.
- Effortlessly Easy and Quick: Don’t let the elegant presentation fool you – this is an incredibly straightforward chicken recipe. The Mediterranean stuffing comes together in minutes, and the entire meal, from start to finish, can be on your table in under 50 minutes. This makes it an ideal solution for those hectic weeknights when you crave something homemade and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- An Irresistibly Delicious Filling: The heart of this dish lies in its exquisite filling. A harmonious blend of creamy feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes bursting with concentrated flavor, sweet roasted red peppers, aromatic herbs, a hint of spice, and briny Kalamata olives creates a melty, flavor-packed interior that perfectly complements the tender chicken. It’s a symphony of Mediterranean tastes that will captivate your palate.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Bursting with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats from olive oil, this recipe embodies the principles of Mediterranean cuisine, known for its incredible health benefits. It’s a meal you can feel good about serving to your family.
- Impressive for Guests: While simple to make, the visual appeal and sophisticated flavors of this stuffed chicken make it an excellent choice for entertaining. Your guests will be impressed, and you’ll be relaxed knowing how easy it was to prepare.
Essential Ingredients for Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken
Crafting this flavorful Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken requires a selection of fresh and pantry-staple ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the robust, vibrant taste profile that defines this dish. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts, ideally of a similar size to ensure even cooking. This cut of chicken provides a lean protein base and is perfect for creating pockets to hold the delicious stuffing.
- Seasoning Blend: A simple yet powerful mix of garlic powder, paprika (for color and mild sweetness), dried oregano (a cornerstone of Mediterranean flavor), ground black pepper, and salt will beautifully season the chicken, both inside and out.
- Fresh Spinach: Whether you choose baby spinach for its tender leaves or regular spinach, ensure it’s fresh and chopped. Spinach adds a wonderful earthy note, vibrant color, and healthy nutrients to the filling as it wilts down during cooking.
- Crumbled Feta Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, I highly recommend using feta blocks that come packed in brine. Crumbled feta from a block tends to be creamier and more authentic in taste compared to pre-crumbled varieties, which can sometimes be drier. It provides a delightful salty, tangy creaminess to the stuffing.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Jarred roasted red peppers are a fantastic shortcut, offering a smoky sweetness without the hassle of roasting them yourself. Simply drain and chop them before adding to the mix. Of course, if you prefer, you can roast your own for an extra layer of freshness.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Jarred sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, are ideal. Their intense, concentrated tomato flavor adds a delightful chewiness and depth to the filling that’s quintessential to Mediterranean cuisine. Drain them well and chop finely.
- Kalamata Olives: These dark, rich, and fruity Greek olives are a must for their distinct briny flavor. Make sure to slice them before incorporating them into the stuffing so they fit neatly inside the chicken pocket.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Roughly torn basil leaves contribute a fragrant, sweet, and peppery aroma that brightens the entire dish. Fresh herbs are key to truly authentic Mediterranean flavors.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic offers a pungent and aromatic kick that is indispensable in almost any savory Mediterranean recipe. Don’t substitute with garlic powder here; fresh garlic makes a significant difference.
- Red Chili Flakes: Just a pinch of red chili flakes is all you need to introduce a subtle warmth and gentle heat, enhancing the overall complexity of the flavors without overwhelming them. Adjust to your preference.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for both searing the chicken and binding the stuffing ingredients. Its rich, fruity notes are fundamental to Mediterranean cooking. You can use another neutral oil if preferred, but olive oil is highly recommended for flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken
Creating this flavorful Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken is a straightforward process, designed for efficiency without compromising on taste. Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful dish to life:
- Step 1: Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your chicken is ready to bake, allowing for even cooking.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thickest side of each chicken breast, slicing lengthwise. Be mindful not to cut all the way through to the other side, creating a perfect cavity for your delicious filling.
- Step 3: Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with the garlic powder, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Make sure to rub the seasoning thoroughly on both the inside of the pocket and the outside surfaces of the chicken. This infuses the chicken with flavor from every angle. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare the stuffing.
- Step 4: Create the Mediterranean Stuffing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, chopped roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, torn basil, minced garlic, and red chili flakes. Drizzle in one tablespoon of olive oil. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. Taste a small amount of the mixture and adjust seasonings if necessary to your liking.
- Step 5: Stuff the Chicken: Carefully spoon a generous amount of the prepared spinach and feta mixture into the pocket of each seasoned chicken breast. Don’t overstuff, but ensure each cavity is well-filled. To keep the delicious filling securely inside during cooking, seal the opening of each chicken breast with one or two toothpicks.
- Step 6: Sear the Chicken: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining olive oil to the hot skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts into the pan. Sear the chicken for approximately 5-6 minutes per side, or until both sides are beautifully golden brown. Searing creates a delicious crust and locks in moisture, adding depth of flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, sear in batches.
- Step 7: Bake to Perfection: If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it directly to the preheated oven. Otherwise, carefully transfer the seared chicken breasts to an ovenproof dish or casserole dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the stuffing.
- Step 8: Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest, covered with foil, for 5 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and succulent result. Remember to remove any toothpicks before presenting! Serve your Mediterranean stuffed chicken with a side of fresh greens or your favorite Mediterranean-inspired accompaniments.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Chicken Breast
Achieving perfectly cooked, flavorful stuffed chicken breasts is easy with a few simple techniques. Here are some expert tips to ensure your Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken turns out fantastic every time:
- Finely Chop Your Filling: For maximum ease in stuffing and to prevent the filling from spilling out, make sure all your stuffing ingredients (spinach, roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, basil) are chopped into small, uniform pieces. This also helps the flavors meld together more effectively.
- Choose Uniform Chicken Breasts: Select chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness. This ensures they cook at the same rate, preventing some pieces from drying out while others are still undercooked. If your chicken breasts are very thick, you can gently pound them to an even thickness before cutting the pocket.
- Utilize an Oven-Safe Skillet: To minimize cleanup and streamline the cooking process, use a large, oven-safe skillet for both searing and baking. This allows you to go directly from the stovetop to the oven without needing to transfer the chicken to a separate casserole dish. Cast iron or stainless steel skillets are excellent for this purpose.
- Allow Chicken to Rest: After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and loosely tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period is crucial as it allows the internal juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a significantly more tender, moist, and succulent chicken.
- Secure the Filling with Toothpicks: Don’t skip the step of sealing the chicken pockets with toothpicks. This small but vital action helps to keep the delicious cheese and vegetable filling from oozing out during searing and baking, ensuring a beautiful presentation and a flavorful core. Just be sure to count them as you put them in and remove them all before serving!
- Thaw and Pat Dry Frozen Chicken: If you’re starting with frozen chicken breasts, make sure they are completely thawed in the refrigerator overnight. Before seasoning, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is essential for the seasonings to adhere properly and for the chicken to achieve a desirable golden-brown sear.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: When searing the chicken, give each piece enough space in the skillet. If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken will steam rather than sear, resulting in a pale, less flavorful exterior. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring a beautiful, golden crust on all sides.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken
Here are answers to some common questions about making and serving this delicious Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken:
The most reliable way to ensure your stuffed chicken breast is perfectly cooked and safe to eat, without being undercooked or overcooked, is to use a food thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, making sure it doesn’t touch the stuffing. The internal temperature should register 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). The chicken juices should also run clear.
This hearty and flavorful stuffed chicken dish is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some tasty ideas to complement its rich Mediterranean flavors:
- Creamy Easy Mashed Potatoes
- Savory Herb and Parmesan Oven Roasted Potatoes
- Healthy Oven-Baked Brussel Sprouts
- Sweet and tender Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
- Comforting Homemade Green Bean Casserole
- A simple Greek salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Quinoa or couscous for a grain-based option.
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli for more green vegetables.
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping! You have a couple of options: you can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts a day ahead of time, storing them raw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows you to do most of the prep work in advance, making dinner quick and easy. Alternatively, you can cook the entire dish completely, allow it to cool, and then store the cooked stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
While these Mediterranean stuffed chicken breasts are certainly best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be safely stored. Place any cooked and cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best quality, reheat gently in the oven to prevent drying out the chicken.
Absolutely! This recipe freezes wonderfully, offering a convenient make-ahead option. You can freeze the chicken breasts after they have been stuffed but before cooking. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then proceed with the searing and baking instructions. You can also cook the chicken completely, allow it to cool, and then freeze the cooked portions for easy grab-and-go meals. Thaw and reheat as needed.
More Irresistible Chicken Recipes to Explore
If you’re a fan of delicious chicken dishes, you’ll love these other popular recipes that offer a variety of flavors and cooking styles:
- Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups
- Baked Chicken Breast with Mushrooms
- Creamy White Chicken Lasagna
- Creamy Mustard Chicken
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
I genuinely hope you find joy in preparing and savoring all the recipes I share, especially this vibrant and mouth-watering Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken. It’s a dish I’m truly proud of, and I believe it will bring a burst of sunshine to your dinner table. Please give it a try, experience its delightful flavors, and consider rating it and sharing your culinary creations with friends and family!
If you make this recipe and love it as much as I do, please take a moment to leave a star rating and a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable! Don’t forget to use my hashtag to share your delicious recreations with me on INSTAGRAM – I absolutely love seeing what you cook up! For all my latest posts and recipes, be sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK |INSTAGRAM |PINTEREST. Happy cooking!
Print Recipe
Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken
Mariam Ezzeddine
10 minutes
30 minutes
40 minutes
4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 whole chicken breasts, skinless boneless
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 tablespoon basil leaves, torn
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190°C).
- Cut each chicken breast lengthwise to create a deep pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the chicken breasts thoroughly with garlic powder, paprika, oregano, pepper, and salt, rubbing evenly inside and outside. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, feta cheese, roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, fresh basil, minced garlic, red chili flakes, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix the stuffing thoroughly and taste for seasoning, adjusting if needed.
- Generously stuff each chicken pocket with the Mediterranean mixture and seal the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling secure.
- Heat a large, oven-safe skillet with the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Gently add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet (if oven-safe) or chicken to an ovenproof dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74°C).
- Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes (covered), remove toothpicks, and serve the Mediterranean stuffed chicken with your favorite greens or side dishes.
Notes
- Chop your filling ingredients finely so they fit easily and stay inside the chicken pockets.
- For even cooking, select chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness.
- Using an oven-safe skillet allows for a seamless transition from stove-top searing to oven baking, reducing cleanup.
- Resting the chicken for 5 minutes after baking helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more succulent and tender final dish.
- Secure the chicken pockets with toothpicks to prevent the delicious filling from escaping during cooking. Remember to remove them before serving!
- If using frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and stuffing for best results.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing to achieve a beautiful golden crust instead of steaming the chicken.
Nutrition
Calories: 281kcal |
Carbohydrates: 8g |
Protein: 31g |
Fat: 14g |
Saturated Fat: 2g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 9g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 76mg |
Sodium: 816mg |
Potassium: 793mg |
Fiber: 2g |
Sugar: 3g |
Vitamin A: 1988IU |
Vitamin C: 13mg |
Calcium: 45mg |
Iron: 2mg