Are you looking for a mouthwatering chicken dish that combines incredible flavors and textures? This stuffed chicken breast recipe is about to become your new favorite dinner sensation! Imagine tender chicken filled with creamy mozzarella, crispy bacon, and nutritious spinach, served alongside a colorful vegetable medley and hearty bulgur. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can easily prepare at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 50 g (4 slices) bacon
- 100 g spinach
- 100 g mozzarella
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) Dijon mustard
For the Garnish:
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 mixed bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 cup (180 g) bulgur
- 250 ml (1 cup) water
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried basil
Ingredients Conversion Chart
| Ingredient | US Metric | European Metric |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 2 pieces | 2 pieces |
| Bacon | 4 slices | 50 g |
| Spinach | 3.5 oz | 100 g |
| Mozzarella | 3.5 oz | 100 g |
| Mustard | 1/2 tsp | 2.5 ml |
| Bulgur | 1 cup | 180 g |
| Water | 1 cup | 250 ml |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Butterfly the chicken breasts carefully
- Season with salt and pepper
- Spread a thin layer of mustard inside each breast
- Create the Filling:
- Layer spinach leaves
- Add crispy bacon strips
- Top with mozzarella slices
- Stuff and Seal:
- Carefully roll the chicken breasts
- Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine
- Ensure filling is tightly enclosed
- Prepare the Bulgur:
- Rinse bulgur thoroughly
- Combine with water and basil
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 12-15 minutes
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Chop zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion
- Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper
- Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Sear chicken in a hot skillet
- Transfer to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 425 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Servings: 2
Pro Cooking Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C)
- Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking
- For extra crispy bacon, pre-cook slightly before stuffing
- Use toothpicks to secure the chicken roll
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms
- Gluten-Free: Substitute bulgur with quinoa
- Cheese Alternatives: Try goat cheese or feta instead of mozzarella
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the filling
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can stuff the chicken and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: How do I prevent the filling from falling out? A: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the chicken roll tightly.
Q: Can I freeze this recipe? A: Freeze uncooked stuffed chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before cooking.
Q: What side dishes pair well with this recipe? A: A light salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement this dish perfectly.
Q: How can I make this recipe healthier? A: Use turkey bacon, reduce cheese quantity, and add more vegetables.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days
- Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain moisture
Enjoy this delectable stuffed chicken breast that promises to impress your family and elevate your home cooking game!