ucalorie Hasselback Chicken is a wholesome and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. This low-carb, high-protein recipe is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet while indulging in delicious flavors. Moreover, with its customizable stuffing options, Hasselback Chicken can cater to various dietary preferences, including keto, gluten-free, and Mediterranean diets.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating this stunning dish, share pro tips for nailing it every time, and provide a detailed breakdown of its calorie content. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this show-stopping meal!
Ingredients for Hasselback Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- Calories: 140 per breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Calories: 240 total
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
And For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Calories: 7
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Calories: 140
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Calories: 170
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Calories: 100
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Calories: 1
Total Calories per Serving for Hasselback Chicken
Each stuffed chicken breast contains approximately 345 calories, broken down as follows:
- Chicken: 140 calories
- Olive oil (divided among 4): 60 calories
- Stuffing: 145 calories
Instructions for Hasselback Chicken
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First and foremost, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup. While the oven heats up, prepare the chicken breasts. Using a sharp knife, make deep cuts into each breast about ¾ of the way through, spaced evenly. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
Pro Tip: To ensure even cooking, use chicken breasts that are similar in size.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Brush each chicken breast with olive oil and generously rub the spice mixture all over. This step not only adds flavor but also helps the chicken stay moist during baking.
Transitional Word: Additionally, make sure the seasoning gets into the slits for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing
Combine the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, and feta cheese in a medium bowl. Mix well to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Why This Works: Spinach provides a nutrient-rich base, while the combination of mozzarella and feta offers a perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess. Sun-dried tomatoes, on the other hand, bring a sweet and savory punch.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Now, gently stuff the prepared filling into each slit of the chicken breasts. Use a spoon or your hands to ensure the stuffing is evenly distributed. Be sure to press the stuffing down firmly so it stays in place.
Transitional Word: Furthermore, avoid overfilling the slits, as this can cause the stuffing to spill out during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the chicken from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Pro Tip: For a golden, crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Calorie, High-Protein: Each serving is packed with lean protein and minimal carbs, making it perfect for weight management and muscle building.
- Versatile and Customizable: Swap out the stuffing ingredients to suit your taste. For example, try using mushrooms, bell peppers, or even cream cheese.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Hasselback Chicken reheats beautifully, so you can make it ahead for quick lunches or dinners.
Detailed Calorie Breakdown per Ingredient
The total calories for this recipe come from a combination of the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast (6 oz per breast): 140 calories per piece, totaling 560 calories for four pieces.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): 240 calories, divided among four servings.
- Spinach (1 cup): 7 calories.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (½ cup): 140 calories.
- Mozzarella cheese (½ cup): 170 calories.
- Feta cheese (¼ cup): 100 calories.
- Parsley (1 tbsp): 1 calorie.
When divided into four servings, each portion is approximately 345 calories.
FAQs
1. Can I make Hasselback Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and stuffing a day in advance. Simply store the stuffed breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bake them when ready.
2. What sides pair well with this dish?
Hasselback Chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option.
3. Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Conclusion
In summary, Hasselback Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that combines flavor, nutrition, and visual appeal. With its detailed calorie breakdown and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to prepare.
Leave a Reply