Introduction

Discover the delightful taste of stuffed chicken with tomato and feta. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken breasts filled with a savory mixture of ripe tomatoes and creamy feta cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a delicious blend of textures and flavors that will surely impress your guests.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken breasts: 4 pieces
– Feta cheese: 200 grams
– Ripe tomatoes: 2 large
– Fresh basil: a handful
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Garlic: 2 cloves
– Salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). Take a whole chicken and make a pocket in the breast area. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut into the flesh without piercing through the other side.

Step 2: Making the Filling

In a bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, diced tomatoes, and some herbs of your choice. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Stuffing the Chicken

Fill the pocket in the chicken breast with the feta and tomato mixture. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening and prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.

Step 4: Seasoning

Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you prefer, ensuring even coverage for enhanced flavor.

Step 5: Cooking the Chicken

Place the stuffed chicken in a roasting pan and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the juices run clear.

Step 6: Resting

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

Notes

Note 1: Choosing Ingredients

Use fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor, and opt for a good quality feta cheese for the best results.

Note 2: Cooking Time

The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken, so consider using a meat thermometer for accurate readings.

Note 3: Serving Suggestions

Serve the stuffed chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Note 4: Storage

Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cook techniques

Stuffing

Stuffing involves filling a cavity in food with a mixture of ingredients, in this case, a blend of tomato and feta cheese. This technique enhances flavor and adds moisture during cooking.

Roasting

Roasting is a dry heat cooking method that uses an oven to cook food evenly, resulting in a golden-brown exterior and tender interior. It’s essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor in the stuffed chicken.

Seasoning

Seasoning refers to the process of adding salt, herbs, and spices to enhance the flavor of your dish. Proper seasoning is crucial to ensure that the chicken and its stuffing are flavorful.

Resting

Resting is letting cooked meat sit for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product.

FAQ

Can I use different types of cheese for the stuffing?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as goat cheese or mozzarella for varied flavors.

What is the best way to ensure the chicken cooks evenly?

Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensuring uniform size among the chicken pieces can help achieve even cooking.

Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?

Yes, the stuffing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

How long should I let the chicken rest after cooking?

Let the chicken rest for about 5 to 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for optimal flavor and juiciness.

What can I serve with stuffed chicken?

Stuffed chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

The stuffed chicken with tomato and feta is a delightful dish that brings together savory flavors and vibrant ingredients. It’s a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe not only satisfies the palate but also offers a visually appealing meal that can impress your guests. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy feta, and ripe tomatoes creates a harmonious balance, making it a must-try dish.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Consider filling bell peppers with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, cheese, and spices for a colorful and nutritious meal.

Chicken Parmesan

Breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese offers a classic Italian flavor twist that pairs well with pasta.

Herb-Crusted Salmon

A simple yet elegant preparation for salmon, featuring fresh herbs and lemon, providing a light and flavorful option.

Eggplant Rollatini

Thin slices of roasted eggplant rolled with ricotta and spinach, topped with marinara sauce, create a hearty vegetarian dish.

Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Zucchini hollowed out and filled with ground turkey, tomatoes, and cheese make for a low-carb yet satisfying meal.

Chicken Tikka Masala

A rich and creamy Indian curry dish that pairs beautifully with basmati rice and naan bread, offering a bold flavor profile.

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

A variation of the original recipe, using spinach and feta as a filling adds a different yet equally delicious twist to the dish.