Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Stuffed Chicken Breasts:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally without cutting all the way through. Season both the inside and outside of the chicken with 1 ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly inside each butterflied chicken breast. Close the chicken and secure with toothpicks to keep the filling in place.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Set aside to rest.
Make the Creamy Spinach Rigatoni:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and 1 teaspoon of salt, sautéing for 5 minutes until the onion turns soft and translucent.
- Pour in the heavy cream and let it cook, stirring frequently, until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour with 3 tablespoon of water until smooth. Stir the flour mixture into the sauce and cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens further.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, and fresh spinach. Simmer until the spinach wilts, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy spinach sauce.
Serve:
- Plate the creamy spinach rigatoni and top with the stuffed chicken breasts. Serve immediately and enjoy!
