You will love the vibrant flavors in this Mediterranean-inspired dish…
Feta stuffed chicken breast stuffed with sun dried tomato and basil, served on a bed of sautéed bell pepper, zucchini, tomato and celery.
Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Discover the vibrant flavors and textures in this Mediterranean-inspired dish, where the tender juiciness of chicken meets the tangy punch of feta and the rich, aromatic touch of sun-dried tomatoes and basil. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress with a meal that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Skill Level: Intermediate
This recipe requires some basic cooking skills, such as stuffing chicken breasts and chopping vegetables. The steps are straightforward, but a little finesse is needed to ensure the chicken is juicy and the stuffing stays in place.
Health Benefits
This dish is a powerhouse of nutrients.
- Chicken breast provides high-quality protein, while feta cheese adds calcium.
- The vegetables—red bell pepper, zucchini, tomato, and celery—offer a wealth of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
- The olive oil used in cooking is a great source of healthy fats.
Time and Servings
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, 4 pieces (about 28 ounces or 800 grams total)
- Feta cheese, crumbled, 4 ounces (113 grams)
- Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, 1/3 cup (55 grams)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, 1/4 cup (15 grams)
- Red bell pepper, 1 large, chopped (about 5 ounces or 150 grams)
- Zucchini, 1 medium, chopped (about 7 ounces or 200 grams)
- Tomato, 1 large, chopped (about 6 ounces or 170 grams)
- Celery, 2 stalks, chopped (about 3 ounces or 85 grams)
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving, 2 cups (370 grams)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the stuffing: In a bowl, mix the feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
- Stuff the chicken: Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with the feta mixture. Secure with toothpicks.
- Season: Brush the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Place the chicken in a baking dish and cook in the oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the chicken bakes, heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and sauté the chopped vegetables until tender. (See details below)
- Serve: Arrange the steamed vegetables on a plate, place a stuffed chicken breast on top, and serve with a side of rice.
How to Saute Perfectly
Sauteing the vegetables is a quick and easy process that enhances their flavors and maintains a satisfying texture. Here’s a simple overview of how to do it:
- Heat the Oil: Start by heating a tablespoon or two of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil covers the bottom of the pan.
- Add the Vegetables: Once the oil is hot, add your chopped red bell pepper, zucchini, tomato, and celery to the skillet. The order doesn’t matter much here since all the vegetables will cook together and soften.
- Season: Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the vegetables to taste. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or Italian seasoning if desired.
- Stir Frequently: Stir the vegetables frequently with a wooden spoon or spatula to prevent them from sticking to the pan and to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook Until Tender: Continue cooking for about 8-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still have a bit of crunch. The exact time can vary depending on how high the heat is and how finely the vegetables are chopped.
- Finish and Serve: Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. They’re now ready to be served as a bed for your stuffed chicken breasts or as a side dish.
Recipe Shortcuts
- Use pre-crumbled feta cheese and jarred sun-dried tomatoes to save chopping time.
- Buy pre-chopped vegetables from the grocery store.
Best Tips for Perfection
- Ensure the chicken breasts are not overly thick; this helps them cook evenly and stay moist.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing to keep the juices locked in.
Optional Ingredients
- Add olives or capers for an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor.
- Sprinkle pine nuts for a crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with rice, a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrient Information
Approximately per serving:
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 55g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warm.
Origin and History
This recipe draws inspiration from the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits and use of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Stuffed chicken dishes have been popular in various cultures, with local ingredients influencing the fillings.
Conclusion
With its delicious flavors and healthy profile, this Baked Chicken Breast Stuffed with Feta Cheese, Sun-Dried Tomato, and Basil is sure to become a new favorite.
Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, it delivers both nutrition and taste in one perfect package.