Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

This Roasted Red Pepper, Spininach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy spinach filling and a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is packed with bold flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds singing. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 (12-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup milk

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or use an oven-safe skillet.
2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to roll.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil , Cajun seasoning , garlic powder , smoked paprika , salt , and pepper .
2. Brush the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed spinach , chopped roasted red peppers , ½ cup mozzarella cheese , ricotta cheese , Parmesan cheese , and beaten egg . Mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Stuff and Roll the Chicken

1. Spread about ¼ of the spinach mixture evenly over each chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Roll up the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks to keep the rolls intact during cooking.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat .
2. Sear the chicken rolls on all sides until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side . Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

Step 6: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat . Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute , stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken

1. Pour the cheese sauce over the seared chicken rolls in the skillet.
2. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) .

Step 8: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Carefully remove the toothpicks from the chicken rolls.
3. Spoon extra cheese sauce over the chicken if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Spinach Prep: To remove excess moisture from the spinach, squeeze it thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This prevents the filling from becoming watery.
• Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the stuffed chicken rolls up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature before searing and baking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. The juicy chicken is stuffed with a creamy, cheesy spinach mixture studded with sweet roasted red peppers, then smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe delivers on taste and presentation. Dive into this cheesy, savory masterpiece and savor every bite!