Bocconcini and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

An easy and delicious stuffed chicken breasts that are baked not fried! It really isn’t difficult to make and so tasty that the whole family will love it.

Cut chicken, put things inside it, make the pesto, put the chicken in the oven, serve. It’s as simple as that, really! Give it a go, you won’t be disappointed. This Bocconcini and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is no exception. It offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to make it a standout dish.

Stuffed with creamy bocconcini cheese and vibrant spinach, this chicken breast dish is a celebration of simple yet ingredients. The cheese melts into a luscious filling, while the spinach adds a burst of color and earthy flavor. Together, they create a harmonious blend that elevates the humble chicken breast into something truly extraordinary.

Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this Bocconcini and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a must-try. It’s a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious, offering a taste experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

The All-Star Ingredients

• Chicken Breast: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easier stuffing and a cleaner presentation.
• Bocconcini Cheese: These small, fresh mozzarella balls add a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
• Fresh Spinach: Rich in nutrients and flavor, fresh spinach wilts beautifully when cooked, adding color and a subtle earthiness to the dish.
• Garlic and Herbs: Aromatic garlic and herbs like rosemary and thyme infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a touch of Mediterranean flair.
• Salt and Pepper: To season and enhance the flavors.
• Basil Pesto: Adds extra flavor to the dish.

The Detailed Method

Preparing this Bocconcini and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast might seem like a gourmet endeavor, but rest assured, it’s simpler than you think!

Make the Pesto Make the pesto by following the instructions below and set aside until the chicken is cooked.

Preparing the Chicken Breast Start by carefully slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket for the stuffing. Be sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a flap that can be easily folded over the filling.

Stuffing the Chicken Season the inside of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Next, layer fresh spinach leaves and bocconcini cheese inside the pocket you’ve created, ensuring an even distribution of both ingredients.

Securing the Chicken Gently fold the chicken breast flap back over the stuffing, securing it with toothpicks if necessary. Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs.

Cooking the Chicken Bake the chicken breasts in the oven for 25-30 minutes.

Serving Remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts.
Drizzle the prepared basil pesto over the stuffed chicken breasts.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Tips for Success

• Cheese Options: If you can’t find bocconcini, you can substitute with fresh mozzarella slices or any other mild, meltable cheese.
• Customize: Feel free to add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even some cooked bacon bits to the stuffing for added flavor and texture.
• Pairing: This stuffed chicken breast pairs wonderfully with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta.

There you have it—the ultimate guide to making Bocconcini and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast!

So, why wait? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and prepare to impress with this mouthwatering Bocconcini and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe. Enjoy!

Bocconcini and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Recipe by wildfoodjourneyCourse: Dinner

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

350-400

kcal

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 200g bocconcini cheese, sliced

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

• FOR THE BASIL PESTO

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed

• 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 garlic clove

• juice from 1/2 lemon

• 1/4 cup light olive oil

• salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic clove, and lemon juice. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
  While the food processor is running, gradually add the olive oil in a steady stream until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) (standard) or 180C/350F (fan).
  Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally almost all the way through, leaving it attached at one side. Open each chicken breast like a book.
• Place a layer of fresh spinach leaves on one side of each butterflied chicken breast.
  Top the spinach with slices of bocconcini cheese.
  Sprinkle minced garlic over the cheese.
  Close the chicken breasts, securing the edges with toothpicks if necessary.
• Brush each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil.
  Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish.
  Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts.
  Drizzle the prepared basil pesto over the stuffed chicken breasts.
  Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  Serve hot and enjoy your Bocconcini and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast!