Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Pomodoro Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
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Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
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Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
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In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Step 2: Stuff the Chicken
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In another bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Stuff each chicken breast with an equal portion of the cheese mixture, pressing gently to close the pocket. You can use toothpicks to secure them if needed.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
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Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
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Remove from heat and set aside while making the Pomodoro sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the Pomodoro Sauce
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In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and chopped onions, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
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Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Pour in chicken broth and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Stir in fresh basil, then nestle the seared stuffed chicken back into the skillet.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/75°C).
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Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
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Spoon extra Pomodoro sauce over each chicken breast.
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Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
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Serve with your favorite pasta, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g