Golden-Brown Roasted Chicken Breasts with Mediterranean Stuffing
Description
These Golden-Brown Roasted Chicken Breasts are tender, juicy, and generously stuffed with a bold Mediterranean filling of feta, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, pine nuts, and fresh herbs. Roasted to perfection, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor while staying simple, wholesome, and naturally satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Mediterranean Stuffing
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, chopped
- 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare stuffing: In a bowl, mix feta, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, pine nuts, parsley, and minced garlic. Set aside.
- Prepare chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast.
- Stuff chicken: Fill each pocket with the Mediterranean mixture, pressing gently to seal.
- Season: Brush chicken with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Roast: Place chicken in the baking dish and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest & serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Secure stuffed chicken with toothpicks if needed.
- Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra moisture.
- Internal temperature is key for juicy chicken.
Tips for Best Results
- Pound chicken slightly for even thickness before stuffing.
- Add lemon zest to the stuffing for extra brightness.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a crisp golden finish.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a Greek salad.
Servings
Serves: 4
Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: ~360 kcal
- Protein: ~38 g
- Fat: ~22 g
- Carbohydrates: ~4 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
- Calcium: ~15% DV
(Values may vary depending on brands used)
Health Benefits
- High-protein: Supports muscle strength and satiety
- Mediterranean fats: Heart-healthy olive oil, olives, and pine nuts
- Low-carb & gluten-free: Great for balanced eating
- Calcium-rich: Thanks to feta cheese
Q & A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Stuff the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to roast.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
A: Yes, boneless thighs work well but may need a slightly longer cook time.
Q: What can I substitute for feta?
A: Goat cheese or ricotta salata are great alternatives.
Q: Is this keto-friendly?
A: Yes, it’s naturally low-carb and keto-approved.