Roasted Red Pepper, Spinach, and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken
### Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
– 1 cup fresh spinach
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (for the optional sauce)
### Directions:
#### Marinate the Chicken:
1. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce (if using), minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour.
#### Prepare the Stuffing:
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Make a deep cut along the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
5. Stuff each chicken breast with equal amounts of roasted red peppers, spinach, and mozzarella cheese. Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
#### Season and Add a Crispy Topping:
6. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts.
7. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of each stuffed chicken breast.
#### Bake the Chicken:
8. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
#### Optional Balsamic Reduction:
9. While the chicken is baking, add the balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to simmer and reduce by half until it becomes thick and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes.
10. Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the stuffed chicken before serving.
### Serving:
– Serve the stuffed chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The optional balsamic reduction adds a delightful tangy sweetness that pairs well with the savory chicken.
### Nutritional Information (per serving):
– **Calories:** 360 kcal (with crispy topping and balsamic reduction)
– **Servings:** 4 servings
This enhanced recipe should make your stuffed chicken even more flavorful and delicious!