Introduction

This Spinach & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken with Garlic Glaze is a deliciously cheesy and flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender chicken breasts are filled with fresh spinach, roasted red peppers, and mozzarella, then glazed with a sweet and garlicky sauce for an irresistible finish.

Two cooked chicken breasts are shown topped with several layers. The bottom layer is a white melted cheese with a soft and creamy texture, partially covered by wilted dark green spinach leaves. The chicken breasts have a golden brown seared surface sprinkled with black pepper and sesame seeds. On top, there is a shiny, sticky reddish-brown sauce with small pieces of bright red roasted peppers and thin strips of fresh green herbs scattered over them. The dish is on a white plate, and the background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced

4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese (or 1 cup shredded mozzarella)

1 clove garlic, minced

3 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a deep pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.

Step 2: Season the chicken inside and out with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning to build flavor.

Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the chopped spinach, roasted red peppers, minced garlic, and mozzarella cheese until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Stuff each chicken breast with the filling, pressing gently. Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside.

Step 5: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and fragrant.

Step 6: While the chicken sears, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Pour this glaze over the chicken in the skillet.

Step 7: Add butter, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan.

Step 8: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.

Step 9: Spoon the sweet garlic glaze over the chicken once more before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh mozzarella slices for a gooey melt or shredded mozzarella for easier stuffing.

If you don’t have roasted red peppers, substitute with sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.

To avoid overcrowding, use a large oven-safe skillet or bake in a baking dish if needed.

For extra heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the glaze.

Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

FAQs

Can I prepare the chicken stuffed with filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff the chicken breasts and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just wait to add the glaze and bake until ready to serve.

What can I serve with this stuffed chicken?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light pasta to soak up the garlic glaze.