First Step: PREPARE THE CHICKEN

1. Flatten the Chicken: Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly and makes room for the stuffing.
2. Season the Chicken: Once the chicken breasts are even, season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. These simple seasonings will enhance the flavor of the chicken and balance the stuffing.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point; we’ll finish cooking it in the oven.
4. Set the Chicken Aside: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Be sure to keep the skillet hot for the next step.

Second Step: PREPARE THE STUFFING

1. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil (if needed) and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until wilted and tender. If you like, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor at this stage.
2. Combine the Stuffing Ingredients: Once the spinach has cooked down, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the roasted red peppers, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes a creamy, cohesive filling.
3. Stuff the Chicken: Carefully spoon the stuffing into the center of each chicken breast. You can use a spoon or your hands to pack the filling in gently. Be sure not to overstuff the chicken to ensure that it closes properly and doesn’t spill during cooking.

Third Step: COOK THE STUFFED CHICKEN

1. Secure the Chicken: Once stuffed, use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening of each chicken breast. This will help hold the filling inside as it cooks.
2. Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.
3. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.

Fourth Step: MAKE THE SAUCE

1. Prepare the Pan Sauce: While the chicken rests, return the skillet to medium heat and add the chicken broth. Scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
2. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and butter. Allow the butter to melt and thicken the sauce slightly, creating a silky finish.
3. Drizzle the Sauce: Drizzle the sauce over the stuffed chicken breasts before serving. This adds a flavorful depth and ensures that each bite is moist and delicious.

Final Step: GARNISH AND SERVE

1. Garnish: Sprinkle the stuffed chicken with fresh parsley or basil for an added burst of color. You can also garnish with a few sprigs of thyme or a drizzle of extra olive oil.
2. Serve: Slice the chicken breasts and serve them with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.