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Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Fillets:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- If using chicken breasts, gently pound them with a meat mallet to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch thick). This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to stuff.
- Season both sides of the chicken fillets with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
- Prepare the Stuffing:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the chopped onions and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and add the sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Stir to combine. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Carefully stuff each chicken fillet with the vegetable and cheese mixture, packing it tightly. You can secure the stuffing by using toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the chicken closed.
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side, just to brown the outside.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place the seared chicken fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the chicken and season with additional salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve the stuffed chicken fillets with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Chicken Fillets
- Choose the Right Chicken: If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts, as they stay juicy and tender even after baking.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with your stuffing ingredients. You can swap out the vegetables for others like zucchini, eggplant, or artichokes. Different cheeses like goat cheese, mozzarella, or ricotta will also work beautifully.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme add a bright, aromatic flavor to the dish. You can sprinkle them over the stuffed chicken before baking or use them as a garnish for extra flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time, covered, and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for entertaining guests.
- Serve with a Side: Pair the stuffed chicken fillets with a side of couscous, quinoa, or a simple Greek salad to complete the Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Why This Recipe Works
Stuffed Chicken Fillets with Mediterranean Vegetables and Cheese is the perfect balance of savory, fresh, and indulgent flavors. The tender chicken acts as a delicious vessel for the Mediterranean-inspired filling, while the cheese adds a rich and creamy texture. The combination of vegetables brings brightness and color, making each bite a satisfying and balanced experience.
The flavors of garlic, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes provide a depth of taste that’s unmistakably Mediterranean, while the dish remains light enough to be a healthy, wholesome meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a family, or guests, this recipe delivers both taste and presentation, making it a true standout.
Conclusion
Stuffed Chicken Fillets with Mediterranean Vegetables and Cheese is a meal that’s sure to impress. With its colorful filling and tender chicken, it’s a Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the best of both worlds: healthy, flavorful, and satisfying. Easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for any occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy the bright, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in the comfort of your own home!
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