Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach is an easy skillet dinner that looks sophisticated and is loaded with classic Italian flavor! This dish is perfect for weeknight meals, special occasions, or impressing guests. The combination of creamy cheese, vibrant spinach, and tangy sundried tomatoes creates a delightful taste experience that pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a light side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 40 minutes to prep and cook, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of cream cheese, sundried tomatoes, and spinach ensures a rich and savory taste.
• Impressive Presentation: Stuffed chicken breasts look elegant on any plate, perfect for entertaining.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein and vitamins from the spinach, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach, having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large bowl
• Baking sheet
• Skillet
• Toothpicks
• Measuring cups

Why These Tools Matter

• Large bowl: Essential for brining the chicken effectively without spilling.
• Skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly seared chicken.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for transferring the chicken to the oven without hassle.
• Toothpicks: Help hold the stuffed chicken together during cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (8 oz. each)
• ¼ cup kosher salt
• 4 oz. cream cheese
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves (roughly chopped)
• 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes in olive oil with herbs
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup grape tomatoes (halved)

How to Make Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

Step 1: Brine the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts in a large bowl. Add kosher salt and fill the bowl with water to cover the chicken. Stir to dissolve the salt completely. Allow the chicken to sit in this brine for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and juiciness.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

After brining, remove the chicken from the water and pat dry using paper towels. Carefully slice a slit into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Divide the cream cheese, spinach, sundried tomatoes, and mozzarella between each chicken breast. Layer these ingredients inside each slit according to your preference.

Step 4: Secure and Season

Use toothpicks to close up each stuffed chicken breast securely. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken generously with coarse sea salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F while you prepare to sear the chicken.

Step 6: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each piece of stuffed chicken until browned on both sides; this will take several minutes per side. You may need to do this in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan.

Step 7: Bake

Once all pieces are browned, return them to the skillet. Scatter halved grape tomatoes over the top of the chicken. Transfer everything into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Remove from oven and let your stuffed chicken breasts rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delightful Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach!

How to Serve Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. The rich flavors of the stuffed chicken create a delightful meal experience, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

With a Light Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots enhance your plate with color and nutrition.

With Rice Pilaf

• Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs adds a comforting touch to your meal while balancing flavors.

With Quinoa Salad

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, feta cheese, and lemon dressing offers a healthy contrast.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy mashed potatoes provide a classic comfort food pairing that everyone loves.

How to Perfect Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

To make your Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season both the inside and outside of the chicken well to enhance flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sundried tomatoes will elevate the taste of your stuffing.
• Avoid overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches 165°F without drying out.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking keeps it juicy by redistributing the juices.
• Experiment with spices: Consider adding Italian herbs or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of flavor.
• Customize fillings: Feel free to incorporate other ingredients like artichokes or olives into your stuffing for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

When serving Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach, selecting complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a fresh crunch.
2. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and vegetables offers a light yet filling option.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Baked sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness that balances savory flavors.
4. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that still delivers creaminess without sacrificing taste.
5. Caprese Salad: Layered mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze enhances freshness.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles make for a healthy, low-carb side that absorbs flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make a few common mistakes when preparing Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Not Brining the Chicken: Failing to brine the chicken can lead to dry meat. Always soak your chicken breasts in a saltwater solution for at least 30 minutes to ensure juiciness.
• Overstuffing the Chicken Breasts: It might be tempting to add extra filling, but overstuffing can cause the chicken to burst during cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for optimal results.
• Skipping the Searing Step: Searing adds flavor and color. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall dish and creates a beautiful crust.
• Not Allowing Chicken to Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can result in lost juices. Letting it rest for about 5 minutes helps retain moisture.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Quality ingredients make a difference in flavor. Opt for fresh spinach, high-quality sundried tomatoes, and good mozzarella cheese for the best taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil, then place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different vegetables in Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach?

Yes! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

How can I customize the stuffing for my chicken?

You can switch out ingredients like using feta cheese instead of cream cheese or adding herbs like basil or oregano based on your taste preferences.

What should I serve with Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a light side salad, making it versatile for any meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well both in the refrigerator and freezer.

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Conclusion

Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with delicious flavors that everyone will love. This versatile dish allows you to customize it easily with different vegetables or cheeses. Try it today for a satisfying meal that impresses!

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