Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken

When I think of weeknight dinners that make everyone at the table happy, Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken tops the list. There’s something about the combination of tender chicken and vibrant Mediterranean flavors that just speaks to me. One evening, after a long day, I decided to whip up this dish and it quickly became a family favorite. Each bite is filled with savory notes from the feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and kalamata olives. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a sense of comfort and warmth. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

This dish stands out for various reasons. First, the way the chicken breasts are stuffed with a flavorful mix makes it a delightful surprise on the plate. Second, the preparation is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to impress their guests. The combination of ingredients showcases the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, bringing a taste of the sun to your table. Plus, it’s a wholesome meal packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. Finally, it’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides, making it perfect for any occasion.

Everything You Need for Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken

When crafting the perfect Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken, the ingredients play a vital role. They not only complement each other but also infuse your dish with vibrant flavors and textures. The key players include chicken breasts, which serve as the canvas for the delicious stuffing, and feta cheese, which adds a creamy, tangy note. Each ingredient contributes to a wholesome meal that’s sure to impress.

• 2 lbs chicken breasts: The star of this recipe; juicy and tender.
• 2 Tbsp avocado oil: Used for cooking and adds healthy fats.
• 1 ½ tsp ground paprika: Provides a warm, earthy flavor and beautiful color.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ½ tsp sea salt: Essential for seasoning.
• ⅓ yellow onion: Finely chopped to add sweetness and depth.
• 1 cup artichoke hearts: Adds a unique flavor and texture.
• ½ cup kalamata olives: Brings a briny richness.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes: Intensifies the Mediterranean essence.
• 5 oz baby spinach: Adds a fresh and healthy element.
• 6 oz feta cheese: Crumbles into the stuffing for creaminess.

Cooking Method for Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken

Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.

1. Start by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water, ensuring they’re clean and ready to work with. Pat them dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear later.
2. Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Carefully use a sharp knife to create a pocket in each breast. This is where the magic happens – the filling will transform each piece into a flavor bomb.
3. In a small bowl, combine the avocado oil, ground paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt. Coat the outside of each chicken breast with this mixture, ensuring an even layer for maximum flavor.
4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a large casserole dish, ready for baking. Make sure they’re arranged neatly to ensure even cooking.
5. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the yellow onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften and becomes translucent.
6. Next, stir in the artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and kalamata olives. Add the baby spinach and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and meld with the other ingredients.
7. Remove the lid and stir in the feta cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are combined and the cheese is slightly melted, creating a cohesive stuffing.
8. Scoop generous amounts of the stuffing mixture into each pocket of the chicken breasts, packing it in gently.
9. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Once preheated, place the stuffed chicken breasts on the center rack. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness by ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
10. Once done, remove the Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute, making each bite even more satisfying.

Ways to Customize

Personalization makes cooking fun! While the Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken is delicious as is, here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Experiment with Cheese: Try using goat cheese or mozzarella instead of feta cheese for different flavors.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the stuffing.
• Include Nuts: Incorporating chopped nuts like pine nuts or walnuts into the filling can add a delightful crunch.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the stuffing.
• Use Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken breasts for turkey or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Serve with Sauces: Consider drizzling a lemon or tahini sauce over the finished dish for an extra layer of flavor.

Great Combinations for Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken

Serving Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken offers a wonderful opportunity to create a complete meal that delights the senses. Here are some fantastic pairings:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots.
• Quinoa Salad: Accompanying this dish with a refreshing quinoa salad adds a healthy grain component and bright flavors.
• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread complements the meal beautifully and is perfect for soaking up any juices.
• Fresh Salad: A light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly, adding freshness to your meal.
• Rice Pilaf: Serve with a fragrant rice pilaf to soak up the delicious flavors from the chicken.
• Occasions: This dish is ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight meal.
• Leftovers: If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making for an easy lunch option.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken is truly a standout dish that marries flavor and nutrition beautifully. With its vibrant stuffing and juicy chicken, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a household favorite. I encourage you to give it a try and see how it transforms your dinner table. Cooking should be a source of joy, and this dish brings that happiness right to your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and enjoy a culinary adventure tonight!

Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken

A comforting dinner that bursts with flavor, Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken features juicy chicken breasts filled with a vibrant mix of artichokes, olives, and feta. This easy weeknight recipe is perfect for anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine. Why not make it tonight?

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsp avocado oil divided
• 1 ½ tsp ground paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ⅓ yellow onion finely chopped
• 1 cup artichoke hearts chopped
• ½ cup kalamata olives chopped
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 5 oz baby spinach
• 6 oz feta cheese crumbles

Instructions

 

• Give the chicken breasts a rinse under water, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to carefully cut a slit (or “pocket”) into each breast.
• Coat the outside of each chicken breast with avocado oil and sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt. Place the breasts in a large casserole dish.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high and add the onion. Saute, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and kalamata olives, followed by the baby spinach. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to allow the spinach to wilt.
• Stir in the feta cheese and mix well until the mixture is well-combined.
• Scoop the stuffing mixture into each chicken breast. Bake on the center rack of the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Serve Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken with your choice of side dishes and enjoy!

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Just ensure to wrap it tightly.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables.
• Customization: Feel free to adjust the stuffing ingredients to your taste.
• Serving: This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Keyword easy weeknight dinner, healthy Mediterranean recipes, Mediterranean chicken recipe, stuffed chicken breasts

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.