Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Stuffing:
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening, if desired)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Butterfly the chicken breasts by making a horizontal cut through the center, leaving the edges intact, to create a pocket. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
3. Cook the Bacon:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
4. Sauté Spinach and Garlic:
- Add chopped spinach and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the spinach is wilted.
5. Prepare the Stuffing:
- In a bowl, combine the cooked bacon and spinach mixture with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
6. Stuff the Chicken:
- Stuff each chicken breast with the bacon and spinach mixture. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
7. Sear the Chicken:
- In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
8. Transfer to Oven:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth, heavy cream, and butter. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few minutes. If desired, whisk in flour to thicken the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
10. Serve:
- Spoon the sauce over the stuffed chicken breasts and serve immediately. Remove toothpicks before serving.
Tips:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends for the stuffing, such as Swiss, cheddar, or provolone.
- Vegetable Additions: Enhance the stuffing with diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts for added flavor.
- Side Dish Suggestions: Serve the stuffed chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
This Chicken Breast Stuffed with Hot Bacon and Spinach is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress your guests. The combination of savory bacon, vibrant spinach, and creamy cheese makes this stuffed chicken a standout meal. Enjoy!
