Description
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a colorful mix of primavera vegetables and cheese, then baked until tender and flavorful. This elegant yet easy dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Vegetable Filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup zucchini, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
Other
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing chicken breasts)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Chicken Breasts: Cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through, to create space for the vegetable stuffing.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add broccoli, red bell pepper, zucchini, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix Filling: Remove the sautéed vegetables from heat and let them cool slightly. Stir in the shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese to combine the mixing.
- Stuff Chicken: Evenly stuff the vegetable and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent filling from spilling out during baking.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared greased baking dish, ensuring they are spaced evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the filling to settle.
Notes
- Swap vegetables based on season—spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus are great alternatives.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for extra flavor and a crispy topping.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or a light salad to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Meat & Mains
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
