Oven-Roasted Chicken Breasts with Mediterranean Stuffing Recipe
This Oven-Roasted Chicken Breasts with Mediterranean Stuffing offers a flavorful, juicy chicken dish filled with a zesty blend of feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a wholesome dinner, this recipe combines Mediterranean tastes with simple preparation, making it ideal for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Mediterranean Stuffing
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), finely chopped
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, chopped
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Optional Garnish
- Extra parsley or basil
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare for roasting the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with olive oil, then season them thoroughly with the spice mixture to infuse flavor.
- Create Chicken Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the stuffing.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a separate bowl, mix together the crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, parsley, basil, olive oil, and minced garlic until evenly combined.
- Stuff the Chicken: Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the Mediterranean stuffing mixture. If needed, secure the openings with toothpicks to hold the filling inside during cooking.
- Roast the Chicken: Place the stuffed breasts into the prepared baking dish and roast them uncovered in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Optional Broil: For a lightly golden and crisp top, broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks if used, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve with lemon wedges to add a fresh, citrusy brightness.
Notes
- To keep the filling secure, use toothpicks but remember to remove them before serving.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, couscous, or herbed rice for a complete meal.
- Drizzling pan juices or adding a light yogurt sauce enhances moisture and flavor.
- The recipe is ideal for meal prep as it reheats well without drying out.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 46 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: oven-roasted chicken, Mediterranean stuffing, stuffed chicken breasts, healthy chicken recipe, feta cheese chicken, sun-dried tomato chicken, easy weeknight dinner