These Stuffed Chicken Fillets with Mediterranean Vegetables and Cheese are a delightful combination of tender chicken, savory cheese, and a medley of Mediterranean-inspired vegetables. The chicken is marinated with olive oil, herbs, and spices, then stuffed with a flavorful mixture of sautéed mushrooms, carrots, onions, and more. The addition of ham, cheese, avocado, and olives gives this dish a rich, satisfying taste. Paired with a light side salad of cucumbers, spinach, and fresh dill, this meal is both hearty and refreshing. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a special occasion, or whenever you want to enjoy Mediterranean flavors at home.
Preparation Time
- Active Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 450 kcal
Ingredients
For the Chicken Fillets:
- 50g olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground red pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic
- 2 chicken fillets
- Salt, to taste
For the Stuffing and Vegetables:
- 100g champignons (mushrooms), sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- Fresh dill, finely chopped
- 100g cheese, grated (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Butter, for sautéing
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 12 slices of ham
- A handful of olives, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Provencal herbs, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 30ml hot olive oil
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 50g spinach
- Salt, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, black pepper, red pepper, oregano, dried garlic, and a pinch of salt.
- Place the chicken fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the grated carrots and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
- Mix in the tomato paste, chopped dill, and Provencal herbs. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the grated cheese.
- Add the sliced olives and diced tomatoes to the mixture and mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Chicken
- Remove the chicken fillets from the marinade and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Cut a pocket into each fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pocket with 2 slices of ham, a generous spoonful of the vegetable-cheese mixture, and a slice of avocado.
- Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the stuffing in place.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the hot olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken fillets on both sides until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Prepare the Side Salad
- In a bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, spinach, and a handful of fresh dill.
- Toss with a drizzle of olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Remove the toothpicks from the stuffed chicken before serving.
- Plate each fillet with a portion of the side salad and garnish with additional dill or herbs as desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy the Mediterranean flavors!
Why This Recipe is Timeless
This Stuffed Chicken Fillets with Mediterranean Vegetables and Cheese recipe is timeless because it blends healthful ingredients, vibrant flavors, and an easy-to-prepare dish that is perfect for both casual and formal dining.
- Health and Flavor Combined: The recipe incorporates wholesome ingredients like spinach, tomatoes, and olive oil while being indulgent with cheese and ham.
- Mediterranean Influence: The use of fresh herbs, olives, and olive oil reflects the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet.
- Elegant Yet Simple: This dish strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and simplicity, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions.
- Customizable: You can experiment with the stuffing by adding sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, or even different cheeses like feta or mozzarella.
- Crowd-Pleasing: With its rich flavors and stunning presentation, this dish is sure to impress family and guests alike.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35 grams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or couscous for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemon-infused water to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
Tips
- You can replace the cheese with a dairy-free version for a lighter option.
- To add an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a longer period to allow the spices to penetrate more deeply.
- If you’re short on time, skip the oven step and cook the stuffed chicken entirely in the skillet, reducing the cooking time slightly.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with large portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices, and stuff them with the vegetable-cheese mixture.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing or marinade for an extra spicy kick.
- Cheese Lovers: Use a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella, feta, and Parmesan, for an even cheesier stuffing.
Conclusion
Stuffed Chicken Fillets with Mediterranean Vegetables and Cheese is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the best of Mediterranean ingredients. The rich stuffing, tender chicken, and fresh salad make it a perfect meal for any occasion. This recipe is not only delicious but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean with every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can stuff the chicken fillets and refrigerate them up to a day before cooking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, gouda, or feta for a Mediterranean touch.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish without the ham?
A: Yes! You can omit the ham and use vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for a vegetarian version.