Spinach & Pepper Chicken (Printable Version)
# What You’ll Need:
→ Chicken and Flavorings
01 -
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
02 -
1 tsp Cajun spice mix
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
05 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
06 -
1/4 tsp salt
07 -
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
→ Filling
08 -
1 (12-oz) jar of roasted red peppers, chopped and drained
09 -
1/4 cup Parmesan, grated
10 -
1 large egg, beaten lightly
11 -
1 (10-oz) pack of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
12 -
1/2 cup ricotta
13 -
1 cup mozzarella, shredded (divided)
→ Creamy Cheese Sauce
14 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
15 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
16 -
1/4 cup milk
17 -
1 cup chicken broth
18 -
2 tbsp butter
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Turn your oven on to 400°F and coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little oil. Flatten each chicken breast to 1/2-inch thickness between two sheets of plastic wrap. Rub both sides of the chicken with a mix made of olive oil, Cajun spice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
02 -
Mix the squeezed spinach, chopped peppers, 1/2 cup mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and egg together in a medium bowl until smooth.
03 -
Take a portion of the spinach mixture (about 1/4) and evenly spread it over each chicken breast. Roll the breasts up tightly, using toothpicks to hold them in place.
04 -
On medium-high heat, warm butter in a big oven-safe skillet. Brown the chicken rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden.
05 -
In a small pot, heat butter on medium until melted, then stir in the flour and cook just for a minute while whisking constantly. Slowly add chicken broth and milk, whisking until smooth. Stir continuously until it thickens into a creamy sauce, then mix in the heavy cream and leftover mozzarella until melted. Add salt and pepper to taste.
06 -
Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken rolls in the skillet. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches 165°F inside.
07 -
Once done, let the chicken rest for five minutes. Remove the toothpicks and serve. Add extra sauce on top for more flavor, if you'd like.