Chicken breast stuffed with bell peppers and cheese, served with a side of roasted vegetables

Stuffed Chicken Breast with Peppers and Cheese with Roasted Vegetable Side

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

Today, I invite you to discover a delicious and versatile recipe: chicken breast stuffed with peppers and cheese, served with a colorful side of roasted vegetables. This dish is not only an excellent choice for lunch or dinner but also a simple way to add a touch of creativity to your kitchen. With ingredients that can be varied, you will never get bored of it.

With a bit of history, stuffed chicken breast has been an ingenious method of transforming simple meat into a hearty and flavorful meal. This recipe incorporates za'atar, an aromatic spice that brings a Mediterranean fragrance and a hint of freshness, perfect for enhancing the chicken's flavor. Additionally, the vegetable side will not only add color but also essential nutrients, making this dish a true feast.

Ingredients

- 3 chicken breasts (approximately 600 g)
- 4 large potatoes
- 50 g sliced cheese
- 3 peppers (red, green, and yellow)
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes
- 200 g broccoli
- 100 g green olives
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons za'atar
- Chicken seasoning: allspice, cloves, coriander, ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaves
- 3-4 tablespoons virgin olive oil
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cube of Maggi Bouillon

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by washing the chicken breasts well, then dry them with a paper towel. It is essential to pay attention to detail, as a well-dried chicken will achieve a beautiful golden crust. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then sprinkle the chicken seasoning.

The peppers, which bring a note of freshness, should be sliced into julienne strips, while the broccoli should be broken into smaller florets. The potatoes need to be peeled and cut into medium-sized pieces to ensure even baking. The tomatoes should be sliced into attractive rounds, which will enhance the side dish.

Stuffing the Chicken Breast

Use a sharp knife to create a pocket in each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through so that the filling does not spill out during baking. Fill each pocket with the pepper mixture and a few slices of cheese.

After stuffing, close the openings with the help of toothpicks. This simple trick will ensure that the filling stays inside and does not escape during baking.

Preparing the Vegetable Side

In a large bowl, combine all the vegetables: potatoes, broccoli, sliced tomatoes, and the remaining peppers. Add the green olives for an extra burst of flavor. Sprinkle with salt, freshly ground pepper, and za'atar, then drizzle with virgin olive oil. Mix well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.

Assembling and Baking

In a Pyrex dish, place the stuffed chicken breasts, leaving a little space between them. Surround them with the vegetable mixture. In a cup of hot water, dissolve the Maggi cube and pour it over the vegetables to enhance the flavor.

Drizzle the chicken breasts with a little olive oil and sprinkle za'atar over them again. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 220 degrees Celsius. Allow everything to bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it brown for 10-15 minutes until the chicken breasts have a golden crust.

Serving

Once the dish is ready, let it rest for a few minutes, then remove the toothpicks. Serve the stuffed chicken breast alongside the vegetable side, and for an extra burst of flavor, add assorted pickles. This combination will bring a perfect balance between the intense flavors of the chicken and the freshness of the vegetables.

Practical Tips

1. Vary the Filling: Instead of peppers, you can use mushrooms, spinach, or even feta cheese to create different flavors.
2. Experiment with Spices: Za'atar is delicious, but you can also add other herbs like rosemary or thyme to change the flavor profile.
3. Alternative Sides: Instead of roasted vegetables, you can opt for a fresh salad or mashed potatoes, which pair excellently with the stuffed chicken.
4. Calories and Nutritional Benefits: This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, vitamins from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the olive oil. A serving has approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, it is an excellent and very healthy alternative.
2. How can I make the dish spicier? Add hot peppers or chili flakes to the filling or on top of the chicken.
3. Is this dish suitable for a holiday meal? Absolutely, its attractive appearance and delicious flavor make it perfect for special occasions.

Conclusion

This recipe for stuffed chicken breast with peppers and cheese is a true delight for the taste buds. Easy to prepare, with accessible ingredients and a multitude of possible variations, it will surely become one of your favorite recipes. Enjoy!