Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken and Seasoning
01 -
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 ounces each)
02 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
03 -
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
04 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 -
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
07 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Stuffing
08 -
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
09 -
1 (12-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
10 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
11 -
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
12 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 -
1 large egg, lightly beaten
→ Cheese Sauce
14 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
15 -
2 tablespoons butter
16 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
17 -
1 cup chicken broth
18 -
1/4 cup milk
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to 1/2-inch thickness. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
02 -
In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed spinach, chopped roasted red peppers, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
03 -
Spread about 1/4 of the spinach mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks.
04 -
Heat the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken rolls on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
05 -
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the heavy cream and remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
06 -
Pour the cheese sauce over the seared chicken rolls in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
07 -
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving. Spoon extra sauce over chicken if desired.