Basil and mozzarella stuffed chicken with pasta salad recipe

Nutritional Benefits

1. Mozzarella cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles.
2. Basil is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage caused by harmful free radicals.
3. Chicken is a lean source of protein and is low in fat, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight.
4. Pasta provides carbohydrates, which are the body's main source of energy.
5. The salad dressing used in the pasta salad recipe adds healthy fats, such as olive oil, which can help improve heart health.
6. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, which has been shown to have antioxidant properties.
7. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them a hydrating and refreshing addition to the salad.
8. Onions contain antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
9. Lemons used in the recipe provide vitamin C and can aid in digestion.
10. Garlic has been shown to have various health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Ingredients

1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
3. 1 cup fresh basil leaves
4. 1 cup cooked pasta
5. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
6. 1 cup cucumber, sliced
7. 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
8. 2 tablespoons olive oil
9. 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
10. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
11. 2 cloves garlic, minced
12. Salt and pepper to taste

Processing Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut a slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket for the stuffing.
3. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese and a few basil leaves inside each pocket.
4. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
5. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown.
6. Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
8. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
9. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
10. Remove the chicken breasts from the oven and serve with the pasta salad.

Tips and Recommendations

• Make sure to properly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavors.
• You can customize the pasta salad by adding other vegetables or herbs of your choice.
• For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta in the salad.
• If you want to add some extra flavor to the chicken, you can sprinkle some dried herbs or spices on top before baking.
• Serve the stuffed chicken with a side of fresh greens or steamed vegetables for a complete and nutritious meal.
• When shopping for ingredients, choose organic and locally sourced products whenever possible to support sustainable and healthy food practices.

Shopping List:

1. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4)
2. Mozzarella cheese slices (4)
3. Fresh basil leaves (1 cup)
4. Cooked pasta (1 cup)
5. Cherry tomatoes (1 cup)
6. Cucumber (1 cup)
7. Red onion (1/2 cup)
8. Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
9. Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon)
10. Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
11. Garlic cloves (2)
12. Salt and pepper