Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Meat mallet
- Toothpicks
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, Pecorino Romano cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken breasts until they are an even thickness.
4. Divide the spinach and cheese mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, placing it in the center of each breast.
5. Roll up the chicken breasts tightly, securing them with toothpicks.
6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
8. Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
9. Remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
- Internal temperature of chicken: 165°F
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 360
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 42g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baby spinach can be substituted for fresh spinach.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted for Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts.
Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the spinach and cheese mixture.
- Use feta cheese instead of Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Add chopped walnuts to the spinach and cheese mixture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook evenly.
- Use toothpicks to secure the chicken breasts closed and prevent the filling from falling out.
- Let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the chicken breasts in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the chicken breasts sliced on a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted asparagus
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Grilled zucchini
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chicken breasts are not cooking evenly, adjust the heat and cooking time accordingly.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Stuffed chicken breasts have been a popular dish for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures.
Flavor profiles:
- The Pecorino Romano cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor to the spinach filling, while the garlic and olive oil add depth and richness to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
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Region: Italian