Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your table. This easy skillet dinner is perfect for various occasions, from weeknight meals to special gatherings. Its rich flavors combined with the vibrant colors of sundried tomatoes and spinach make it not only delicious but visually appealing too. You can pair it wonderfully with garlic bread or a light side salad, making it a versatile choice for any dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can create an impressive meal that doesn’t require extensive culinary skills.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of cream cheese, sundried tomatoes, and spinach provides a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Pairings: Enjoy this dish with garlic bread or fresh salads for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and elegant stuffing make this dish look gourmet without the hassle.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large bowl
• Paper towels
• Sharp knife
• Toothpicks
• Skillet
• Oven

Why These Tools Matter

• Large Bowl: Perfect for brining the chicken while ensuring even seasoning.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes slicing into the chicken breasts quick and safe.
• Toothpicks: These hold your stuffed chicken together during cooking for easy handling.
• Skillet: A sturdy skillet is essential for searing the chicken to perfection before baking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (8 oz. each)
• ¼ cup kosher salt
• 4 oz. cream cheese
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves (roughly chopped)
• ½ cup sundried tomatoes in olive oil with herbs
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup grape tomatoes (halved)

How to Make Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

Step 1: Brine the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a large bowl. Add kosher salt and fill the bowl with water to cover the chicken breasts. Stir to dissolve salt. Allow the chicken to sit in the brine for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Slice a slit into the side of each chicken breast being careful not to slice all the way through.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Divide the cream cheese, spinach, sundried tomatoes, and mozzarella between the chicken breasts. Layer these ingredients inside; the order doesn’t matter. Use toothpicks to close up each stuffed breast securely.

Step 4: Season and Preheat

Sprinkle both sides of each stuffed chicken breast with sea salt and black pepper. Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken by browning it for several minutes on each side. You may need to brown them in batches so as not to overcrowd the pan. Once browned, remove them to a plate.

Step 6: Bake

Return all of the seared chicken back to the skillet. Sprinkle grape tomatoes over them. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from oven and allow chicken breasts to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach!

How to Serve Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

Serving Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its delicious flavors.

With Garlic Bread

• Warm Garlic Bread: Serve slices of toasted garlic bread for a crunchy complement. The buttery, garlicky taste pairs beautifully with the creamy filling of the chicken.

Over a Bed of Quinoa

• Nutty Quinoa: Place the chicken on a bed of fluffy quinoa. The nutty flavor of quinoa adds texture and absorbs the savory juices from the dish.

Accompanied by a Light Salad

• Fresh Mixed Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Seasonal Steamed Veggies: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. These vegetables add color and nutrition, complementing the main dish.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

To ensure your Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach comes out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Brine the Chicken: Soaking the chicken in brine improves its juiciness and flavor. Don’t skip this step for optimal results.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature before using it. This makes it easier to blend and spread inside the chicken.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times to prevent overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
• Don’t Rush Browning: Take your time browning the chicken before baking. A good sear adds depth of flavor that enhances the final dish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting pairing that complements the stuffing.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet bites offer a lovely contrast in flavor while adding sweetness to balance the savory chicken.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that’s light yet satisfying, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors effectively.
4. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and veggies provides a refreshing twist.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a healthy alternative to pasta, zucchini noodles lightly sautéed add crunch without heaviness.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide vibrant flavors and colors that enhance any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here’s how to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the brining step: Brining the chicken helps keep it moist and flavorful. Don’t skip this vital step; it makes a big difference in texture.
• Overstuffing the chicken: While it may be tempting, overstuffing can cause the filling to spill out during cooking. Be generous but leave enough space to seal the chicken properly.
• Not preheating the skillet: A hot skillet is essential for searing. If your skillet isn’t hot enough, the chicken will steam instead of brown, affecting flavor.
• Ignoring resting time: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking is crucial for juiciness. Cutting into it too soon can result in dry meat.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh ingredients like high-quality sundried tomatoes and fresh spinach enhance flavor. Invest in good quality for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure the chicken has cooled down before refrigerating to avoid condensation.

Freezing Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with dates to track freshness easily.

Reheating Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other greens instead of spinach in Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach?

Yes! You can substitute kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard for spinach if you prefer something different.

What sides pair well with Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach?

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, pasta, or a light salad. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste!

Can I prep Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken breasts earlier in the day and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook them.

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is a great tool for this!

Conclusion

Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that impresses at any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different greens or cheeses based on your preference. Give this delicious recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!