Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that combines the rich flavors of Italy with the comfort of home-cooked meals, look no further than Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken. This dish is bursting with flavor and is sure to impress your family and friends. With tender chicken breasts stuffed with creamy mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all drizzled with a luscious garlic cream sauce, it’s a delightful culinary experience that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an event. The combination of fresh ingredients and savory flavors creates an irresistible dish that appeals to all palates. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, a family dinner, or simply on a weekday, this dish is bound to leave everyone wanting more. The gooey mozzarella cheese, the tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and the vibrant spinach come together to create a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s visually stunning, making it perfect for impressing guests.

What Goes Into Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken

To create this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts – Choose plump, boneless chicken breasts for the best results.
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese – The creaminess of mozzarella adds a delightful texture.
• 2 cups sliced sun-dried tomatoes in oil – These bring a tangy, sweet flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
• 2 cups spinach – Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided – For cooking and adding flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 cup heavy cream – This creates a rich and luscious sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth – For depth of flavor in the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a robust garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – For extra flavor in the sauce.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese – Provides a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To prepare Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken, you will need the following tools:

• Sharp knife – For cutting the chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board – To safely prepare your ingredients.
• Oven-safe skillet or pan – For cooking the chicken and sauce together.
• Meat thermometer – To ensure the chicken is cooked through.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce.

Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken: How It’s Done

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a space to hold the delicious filling.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the sliced sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well, then generously stuff each chicken breast pocket with the mixture. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 4: Season and Sear

Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce

Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Return Chicken

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and the additional teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, return the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken with the creamy sauce drizzled on top. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides!

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you’re looking to customize this recipe or work with what you have, consider these ingredient replacements:

• Chicken breasts: You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Mozzarella cheese: Try provolone or gouda for a different flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be different.
• Heavy cream: Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

Cook’s Commentary

Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a versatile recipe that can be tailored to your taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. You can add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or swap out the spinach for kale if you prefer. The key to this dish is ensuring that the chicken remains juicy while the stuffing is flavorful and satisfying. If you have leftovers, they make a fantastic addition to a salad or sandwich the next day!

Prep Ahead & Store

To save time, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time. Stuff and sear them, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to eat, simply heat the cream sauce and bake the chicken as directed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to enjoy again.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed before preparing.

What should I serve with Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this dish ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, you can prepare and bake the chicken, then cool it completely and freeze it. Reheat in the oven before serving.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

To complete your meal, consider pairing Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken with:

Ready to Cook?

Stuffed Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that promises to bring comfort and joy to your dining table. With its rich flavors and creamy sauce, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make time and time again. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy every bite of this delicious meal.