Sun-dried tomato stuffed chicken for lunch
Sun-dried tomato stuffed chicken for lunch
Sun-Kissed Lunch: Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Chicken
Sun-dried tomatoes burst with concentrated flavor, making them a perfect ingredient for a quick and delicious lunch. This recipe for Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Chicken is a breeze to prepare and packs a flavorful punch, leaving you satisfied without feeling weighed down.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, chopped)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket horizontally into each chicken breast, without cutting all the way through. Season the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the filling evenly into the pockets of the chicken breasts. You can use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the filling is heated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite whole grains for a complete and satisfying lunch.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use pesto instead of the cream cheese mixture.
- Don’t have fresh basil? Chopped spinach or parsley would be a delicious substitute.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
This Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Chicken is a fantastic option for a flavorful and protein-packed lunch. So ditch the boring and embrace the sun-kissed taste of summer with this easy and satisfying recipe!