**Classic Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe**
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* Salt and pepper, to taste
For the stuffing:
* 1 cup mixed greens (spinach, arugula, lettuce)
* 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest
* Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional ingredients for variations:
* Bacon, diced
* Mushrooms, sautéed
* Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
* Onions, caramelized
* Pesto spread
* Chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, combine the mixed greens, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Lay a chicken breast flat and make a horizontal incision in the breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open the breast like a book and season the inside with salt and pepper.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of the stuffing mixture onto the inside of the breast, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Close the breast and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
7. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Remove the toothpicks or twine and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
**Tips for Correct Cooking Techniques:**
1. **Don't overstuff**: Leave enough room for the chicken to cook evenly and prevent the stuffing from spilling out.
2. **Don't overbake**: Chicken can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on the internal temperature and remove it from the oven when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. **Use a meat thermometer**: A thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
4. **Don't press down**: Resist the temptation to press down on the chicken with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the meat dry.
5. **Let it rest**: Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing helps the juices redistribute, making it more tender and juicy.
**Variations and Additions:**
* **Bacon and Mushroom**: Add diced bacon and sautéed mushrooms to the stuffing for a savory twist.
* **Sun-dried Tomato**: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
* **Pesto Chicken**: Spread a layer of pesto on the inside of the chicken breast before adding the stuffing.
* **Feta and Parsley**: Add more feta cheese and parsley to the stuffing for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.
* **Onion and Garlic**: Mix in caramelized onions and sautéed garlic for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and combinations to create your own unique stuffed chicken breast recipes!
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