Description
This Primavera-Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts filled with a vibrant medley of zucchini, tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion. Baked to perfection with Italian seasoning, olive oil, and melted mozzarella, this dish offers a colorful, flavorful, and healthy meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds)
- 1 zucchini, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced into half-moons
- 3 medium tomatoes, halved and thinly sliced into half-moons
- 2 yellow bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
Seasoning and Garnish
- 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken.
- Prepare the Chicken. Make careful slits in each chicken breast, being cautious not to cut all the way through, creating pockets for the vegetables.
- Stuff the Chicken. Fill each slit in the chicken breasts with a mixture of thinly sliced zucchini, tomatoes, yellow bell peppers, and red onion, distributing the vegetables evenly.
- Season and Oil. Drizzle the stuffed chicken breasts with the extra-virgin olive oil. Then, sprinkle Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper over them to enhance flavor.
- Add Cheese. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the tops of the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Bake. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through with no pink remaining inside.
- Garnish and Serve. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- You can customize the vegetable stuffing by adding your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
- Using fresh Italian seasoning will enhance the flavor more than dried blends.
- For a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.