Few dishes manage to perfectly combine elegance, simplicity, and flavor like Stuffed Chicken Fillets with Mediterranean Vegetables and Cheese. This recipe is a celebration of Mediterranean ingredients and culinary traditions, showcasing tender chicken fillets stuffed with savory ham, cheese, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Seasoned with fragrant herbs and spices, this dish is a feast for the senses and a surefire crowd-pleaser.
The Mediterranean diet is renowned for its health benefits and emphasis on fresh, wholesome ingredients. This recipe stays true to that philosophy, incorporating vibrant vegetables like tomatoes, spinach, and cucumbers, along with aromatic herbs like oregano and Provencal blends. These flavors come together to elevate a simple chicken fillet into a gourmet experience.
Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or even a romantic evening, this stuffed chicken recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s easy enough for weeknight cooking yet sophisticated enough to serve as the centerpiece of a special occasion. Let’s dive into the details and create a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Chicken Fillets
50 grams (0.11 lbs) 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
100 grams (0.22 lbs) champignons (mushrooms), sliced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, grated
Dill, finely chopped
100 grams (0.22 lbs) cheese, grated
Butter: For sautéing
2 tablespoons tomato paste
12 slices of ham
A handful of olives, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
2 tomatoes, diced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
Provencal herbs: To taste
Ground black pepper: To taste
30 milliliters hot olive oil
2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
50 grams (0.11 lbs) spinach
Salt: To taste
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time, and Servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Steps to Make Stuffed Chicken Fillets with Mediterranean Vegetables and Cheese
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix the olive oil, ground 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 aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with grated cheese.
Add the sliced olives and diced tomatoes to the mixture.
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
The Stuffed Chicken Fillets with Mediterranean Vegetables and Cheese is a timeless recipe for several reasons:
Continued on the next page
ADVERTISEMENT
