When the sun begins to set, painting the sky with hues of orange, I find myself reaching for flavors that remind me of Mediterranean warmth. That’s how this Hasselback Greek Stuffed Chicken came to life in my kitchen. Picture this: juicy chicken breasts, sliced and stuffed to the brim with vibrant zucchini, yellow squash, and tangy feta. Each bite transports me to a sun-soaked terrace in Greece, where meals are a celebration.
What’s even more delightful is the simplicity of it all—ready in just 30 minutes! This dish is not just a feast for the senses; it’s also a healthy, high-protein option that even picky eaters will love. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or seeking to impress guests at a dinner party, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s spark some culinary joy with this flavorful and adaptable dish!
Why Will You Love This Greek Stuffed Chicken?
Simplicity: This recipe enables you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Vibrant Flavors: Loaded with fresh veggies and tangy feta, each slice bursts with Mediterranean goodness that will tantalize your taste buds.
Health-Conscious: High in protein and, with plenty of wholesome ingredients, this dish supports healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
Adaptability: Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite seasonal veggies or cheeses for a unique twist each time you make it.
Impressive Presentation: Hasselback style not only looks beautiful on the plate but also makes serving a breeze—everyone will be impressed!
With such irresistible qualities, your taste buds are in for a treat! If you’re curious about more quick and healthy meal ideas, check out my other delicious recipes.
Greek Stuffed Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Perfectly thick cuts are best for stuffing, around 6 oz. each works wonders.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – This brings moisture and richness; avocado oil or melted butter are great substitutes.
• Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor; avoid bottled variants for the best taste.
For the Seasoning
• Dill – A fresh herb that adds a bright touch; parsley or oregano can be swapped if desired.
• Parsley – This herb offers a fresh green flavor; if you prefer a twist, use cilantro instead.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic imparts savory depth; in a pinch, garlic powder works just fine.
For the Vegetables
• Zucchini & Yellow Squash – These provide a tender and sweet texture; feel free to replace them with other summer veggies like bell peppers.
• Roma Tomato – Juicy sweetness that brightens the dish; roasted red peppers can work for a lovely smoky flavor.
• Red Onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and bite; white or yellow onions are suitable alternatives.
For the Cheese
• Feta Cheese – This tangy cheese gives creaminess; goat cheese is a delightful alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Adds that wonderful melt; swap with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a tasty variation.
Get ready to savor every bite of this Greek Stuffed Chicken that celebrates vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness!
How to Make Greek Stuffed Chicken
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a sheet pan by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. This sets the stage for a beautifully cooked chicken.
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Slice each chicken breast with 5-6 slits, taking care not to cut all the way through. This allows for easy stuffing while keeping the chicken juicy and intact.
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Mix your marinade! In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, dill, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Use a brush to generously coat the chicken breasts, ensuring the marinade seeps into those lovely slits.
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Toss the veggies! In another bowl, combine zucchini, yellow squash, tomato, and red onion with the remaining olive oil mixture. Give them a gentle toss to ensure they’re evenly coated.
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Stuff those slits in each chicken breast with the delicious veggie mixture! Top each one with crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella, allowing the cheese to be the crowning glory.
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Bake the chicken in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked through. For a glorious bubbly and golden cheese topping, switch to broil for an additional 5-10 minutes.
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Garnish with extra dill and parsley before serving, adding a fresh touch that enhances both presentation and flavor.
Optional: Serve with a light salad or quinoa for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Greek Stuffed Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor until you’re ready to enjoy another meal!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Greek Stuffed Chicken individually or as a whole dish for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for best results.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with convenience!
Room Temperature: Do not leave Greek Stuffed Chicken out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth and ensure food safety.
What to Serve with Greek Stuffed Chicken?
Enhance your meal experience with delightful sides that complement the robust flavors of your chicken dish.
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Quinoa Salad: Light, fluffy quinoa mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a splash of lemon creates a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the chicken.
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Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender within, these savory potatoes will soak up any juices from the chicken, making each bite comforting and satisfying.
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Mediterranean Veggie Platter: A colorful assortment of olives, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a fresh crunch that mirrors the vibrancy of your Greek-inspired meal.
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Tzatziki Sauce: This tangy yogurt-based sauce brings a cool, creamy element that pairs beautifully with the stuffed chicken, providing a refreshing dip that elevates the dish.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender, smoky asparagus adds a delightful char and earthiness, perfectly complementing the savory ingredients packed inside the chicken.
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Lemon Herb Couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with herbs and lemon provides simple yet zesty flavors, making it a wonderful base to soak up the delicious chicken juices.
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Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita adds a lovely texture that can be used to scoop up veggies and tzatziki, fostering a fun, shared dining experience.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A light, refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the meal while adding a bit of zing to your dining experience.
The combination of these sides will take your Greek Stuffed Chicken to the next level, creating a memorable dining affair filled with flavor and warmth!
Greek Stuffed Chicken Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own in delightful ways.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Replace chicken breasts with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini for a flavorful, plant-based twist.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil marinade for a warm kick that enhances the flavor.
- Herb Boost: Swap the dill and parsley for fresh basil and mint for a refreshing herbal profile reminiscent of Greek cuisine.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped almonds or walnuts into the veggie filling for a delightful crunch and extra nutrients. A rich texture is always welcomed!
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses such as halloumi for its grilling ability or gouda for a smoky flavor. Each cheese can lead to a new, delicious experience!
- Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the marinade for a fragrant twist that brightens the dish with every bite.
- Stuffed Peppers: Use bell peppers in place of the chicken for a lighter, color-packed alternative that’s just as tasty. Who knew healthy could look so vibrant?
- Mediterranean Mix: Stir in sliced Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes for added Mediterranean flair that transports your taste buds straight to Greece.
These variations allow you to tailor the Greek Stuffed Chicken to your family’s preferences while keeping the culinary spirit alive!
Make Ahead Options
These Hasselback Greek Stuffed Chicken breasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully; simply refrigerate the marinated chicken in an airtight container. Additionally, you can prepare the vegetable stuffing mixture ahead of time and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, stuff the marinated chicken with the prepped veggies, top with cheese, and bake as directed. This method not only saves valuable time during busy weeknights, but you’ll still enjoy the same juicy, flavor-packed results, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Greek Stuffed Chicken
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Choose the Right Chicken: Make sure to use thick chicken breasts, around 6 oz. each. This ensures they can hold the stuffing without falling apart.
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Perfectly Cut Veggies: Slice vegetables into half moons to fit snugly in the slits. This way, they won’t fall out during cooking.
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Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the olive oil marinade! Brush generously over the chicken and inside the slits for maximum flavor in your Greek stuffed chicken.
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Don’t Rush Baking: Allow the chicken to bake for a full 20-25 minutes. If unsure about doneness, use a meat thermometer; it’s best at 165°F internally.
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Broil for Extra Crisp: For that beautiful golden cheese topping, broil for an extra 5-10 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
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Customize with Confidence: Feel free to adapt the veggie and cheese fillings to suit your taste. This flexibility makes each Greek stuffed chicken unique!
Greek Stuffed Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for thicker cuts, ideally around 6 oz. each. They should feel plump and firm without any dark spots or unpleasant smell. Fresh chicken will enhance the overall flavor of your Greek Stuffed Chicken.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain their freshness and prevent condensation from forming inside the container.
Can I freeze Greek Stuffed Chicken?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, wrap the stuffed chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it into a freezer bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my chicken breasts aren’t cooking thoroughly?
If you find the chicken isn’t cooking properly, double-check the oven temperature and the thickness of the chicken. Using a meat thermometer can help; the chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If needed, return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until it reaches the safe temperature.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite adaptable. For gluten-free options, ensure all ingredients, especially processed items like feta, are labeled gluten-free. If you have dairy allergies, consider substituting the cheeses with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
How do I know when my stuffed chicken is done?
A key indicator of perfectly cooked Greek Stuffed Chicken is its internal temperature. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast; it should read 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the cheese should be bubbly and lightly browned if broiled. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Savor the Flavor: Hasselback Greek Stuffed Chicken Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a sheet pan by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
- Slice each chicken breast with 5-6 slits, taking care not to cut all the way through.
- Mix your marinade! In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, dill, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the veggies! In another bowl, combine zucchini, yellow squash, tomato, and red onion with the remaining olive oil mixture.
- Stuff those slits in each chicken breast with the delicious veggie mixture! Top with crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella.
- Bake the chicken in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked through.
- Garnish with extra dill and parsley before serving.
