Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken: A Flavorful Journey to the Sun-Drenched Coasts

Craving a dish that's both healthy and bursting with flavor? Look no further than Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken! This trending recipe is taking the culinary world by storm, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory herbs that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean. It's an ideal meal for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or simply when you want to impress with minimal effort and maximum taste.

What Makes Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken So Popular?

The appeal of this dish lies in its perfect balance of fresh ingredients and robust flavors. The Mediterranean diet is renowned for its health benefits, focusing on lean proteins, abundant vegetables, healthy fats, and aromatic herbs. This stuffed chicken recipe embodies these principles, making it a guilt-free indulgence. The process involves butterflying chicken breasts, filling them with a vibrant mixture, and then baking them to golden perfection. The result is a moist, flavorful chicken packed with a delightful surprise in every bite.

Ingredients You'll Need:

To embark on your Mediterranean culinary adventure, gather these fresh and wholesome ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Additional fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want to open it up like a book. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Kalamata olives, minced garlic, fresh oregano, fresh parsley, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Divide the stuffing mixture evenly among the butterflied chicken breasts. Spoon the mixture onto one half of each chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the chicken breast over the stuffing, gently pressing down to seal. You can secure the edges with toothpicks if desired, but often, the chicken will hold its shape.

Step 4: Sear (Optional but Recommended)

For extra flavor and a beautiful golden crust, you can quickly sear the stuffed chicken breasts before baking. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly golden brown.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the skillet with the chicken (or place chicken in a baking dish if you skipped searing) to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The stuffing should be hot and the cheese slightly melted.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist result. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and additional parsley, if desired.

Pairing Suggestions:

This flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

Quinoa or couscous
A fresh Greek salad
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers
A light lemon-herb rice

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
Flavorful & Aromatic: The combination of feta, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and herbs creates an unforgettable taste.
Easy to Make: Simple steps that yield impressive results.
Versatile: Can be adapted with different stuffings to suit your preference.