This delicious recipe for Chicken Fillets with Feta Cheese and Mozzarella Filling is perfect for a satisfying meal. The chicken is seasoned and baked to golden perfection, while the creamy feta and mozzarella filling adds a delightful richness. Paired with a refreshing salad, it makes for a well-rounded and flavorful dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe will certainly satisfy your taste buds.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean flavors, combining tender chicken with creamy feta and mozzarella cheeses, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Full List of Ingredients
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For the Chicken:
- 3 chicken fillets
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Oil, for frying
- 150g (5 oz) feta cheese
- 3 eggs
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 100g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese
- Parchment paper and aluminum foil for wrapping
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For the Salad:
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- Black olives, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons mustard (French or Dijon)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by cutting the chicken fillets as shown in the video, making sure to create a pocket for the filling.
- Season the chicken fillets with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
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Prepare the Wrapping:
- Crumple a piece of foil and then wrap it in parchment paper. This helps keep the chicken moist and tender as it cooks.
- Place the chicken fillets inside the parchment-wrapped foil and drizzle with a bit of oil for added flavor.
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Cook the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the foil paper and parchment before finishing the cooking process to allow the chicken to crisp up a bit.
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Prepare the Filling:
- While the chicken is cooking, mash 150g of feta cheese in a bowl. In another bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks.
- Add the egg whites to the feta cheese, then stir in fresh parsley to bring some herbaceous freshness to the filling.
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Assemble the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is golden brown and slightly cooled, carefully stuff it with the feta and egg white mixture.
- Top the filling with mozzarella cheese to add richness and meltiness.
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Bake the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the stuffed chicken fillets on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is fully cooked.
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Prepare the Salad:
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the salad by dicing the tomato, cucumber, and red onion. Toss them together in a bowl, then add black olives to taste.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, mustard, salt, and black pepper to create a simple vinaigrette.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and mix gently to combine.
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Serve:
- Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the stuffed chicken fillets with the refreshing salad on the side for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe This dish is a creative twist on Mediterranean-inspired stuffed chicken, combining the rich flavors of feta cheese, mozzarella, and paprika. It’s a popular choice for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and nutritious.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Filling: The combination of feta and mozzarella creates a creamy, cheesy filling that perfectly complements the juicy chicken.
- Quick and Easy: This dish is simple to prepare and bake, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or weekend dinner party.
- Customizable: You can add more vegetables to the filling or try different cheeses, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste.
Health Benefits
- High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Rich in Calcium: The feta and mozzarella cheeses provide calcium, which is important for bone health.
- Packed with Vegetables: The salad adds a fresh, nutritious side dish that’s full of vitamins and fiber.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side of Rice: Pair the stuffed chicken with a side of rice or couscous for a filling meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with some crispy garlic bread to scoop up the dressing from the salad.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or potatoes as a side for a well-rounded meal.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Through: Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving, as undercooked poultry can pose health risks. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add ingredients like spinach, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for added flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and other herbs elevate the flavor of the dish, so don’t skip on this step.
Variations to Try
- Add Spinach to the Filling: For an extra boost of greens, you can mix in some sautéed spinach or other leafy greens into the filling.
- Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the filling to make it spicy.
- Make It Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with large portobello mushrooms or eggplant for a meaty texture.
Conclusion This Chicken Fillets with Feta Cheese and Mozzarella Filling is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a main dish for dinner or prepare it for a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The creamy filling, tender chicken, and fresh salad come together for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling? Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, or even cheddar for a different flavor.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and stuffing ahead of time, then bake it just before serving.
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Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftover stuffed chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
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Can I substitute the chicken with another protein? Yes, you can use turkey, pork, or even firm tofu for a non-chicken option.
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How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or chopped fresh chilies to the filling or seasoning for some heat.
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Can I omit the feta cheese? Yes, you can omit the feta and substitute it with another cheese of your choice.
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Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, substitute the flour used for breading or thickening with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.
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How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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What other vegetables can I add to the filling? You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for more flavor.
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How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat