Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily prepare at home. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with smoky roasted red peppers and gooey mozzarella, then baked to perfection for a cheesy, flavorful main course. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and the sweetness of roasted peppers makes this recipe both elegant and comforting. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special yet simple, and impressive enough for guests at a dinner party. Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
Print
Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken – Juicy, Cheesy, and Flavor-Packed
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with roasted red peppers and mozzarella cheese, then baked to perfection for a flavorful and elegant main dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast.
- Stuff each breast with roasted red peppers, mozzarella cheese, and basil. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Brush chicken with olive oil and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in the baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove toothpicks, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
- Pairs well with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
- You can also pan-sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side before baking for a crispier outside.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts – Large and boneless, ideal for stuffing.
Roasted red peppers – Sweet and smoky, providing bold flavor inside the chicken.
Mozzarella cheese – Melts into creamy, gooey perfection.
Spinach (optional) – Adds freshness and extra nutrition to the filling.
Garlic – Minced, infuses the chicken with savory depth.
Olive oil – Keeps the chicken juicy and helps with browning.
Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the filling.
Paprika – Adds subtle warmth and color.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings for balance.
Fresh basil – Optional garnish for a bright finish.
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through. Open it like a book and season both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Layer roasted red peppers, mozzarella slices, and optional spinach inside each breast. Fold the chicken closed and secure with toothpicks.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to the baking dish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove toothpicks, rest for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes 15 minutes, cooking requires 25 minutes, and the dish is ready in about 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Variations and Customizations
Cheese swap – Try provolone, fontina, or goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
Saucy version – Serve with marinara sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Grilled option – Cook on the grill instead of baking for smoky flavor.
Low-carb sidekick – Pair with zucchini noodles or a cauliflower mash.
Breaded twist – Coat with breadcrumbs and Parmesan for a crispy exterior.
Spicy kick – Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
Mediterranean style – Stuff with kalamata olives and feta instead of mozzarella.
Prosciutto layer – Wrap chicken in prosciutto before baking for extra saltiness.
Creamy spinach – Mix spinach with ricotta before stuffing for richness.
Pesto drizzle – Finish with a spoonful of basil pesto for freshness.
FAQs
Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?
Yes, they work perfectly—just drain them well before stuffing.
Do I need to sear the chicken first?
Searing locks in flavor and color, but you can skip and just bake if short on time.
What’s the best mozzarella to use?
Fresh mozzarella slices melt beautifully, but shredded works too.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Secure with toothpicks and avoid overstuffing.
Can I freeze stuffed chicken?
Yes, freeze uncooked stuffed breasts for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely—mild flavors and cheesy goodness appeal to most kids.
Can I cook it in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, checking for doneness.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta dish.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just bake in a larger dish or two separate pans.
Conclusion
Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful, juicy, and cheesy main dish that feels both comforting and gourmet. With its smoky-sweet filling and golden baked finish, it’s an impressive recipe that’s surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this stuffed chicken is versatile, customizable, and sure to become a go-to favorite.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!