Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a vibrant mix of fresh blackberries and mild jalapeƱos, seasoned with Italian herbs, and topped with melted mozzarellaāthis dish is a stunning, flavorful weeknight winner that feels gourmet with minimal fuss!
š§¾ Recipe Card
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Dietary Tags: HighāProtein, GlutenāFree, LowāCarb Option
Ingredients Checklist
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
2 tsp oregano (or Italian seasoning)
-
1āÆtsp garlic powder
-
Sea salt and pepper, to taste
-
1 cup fresh blackberries, lightly smashed
-
4 small jalapeƱos, sliced (most seeds removed)
-
4 thick slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
-
2āÆTbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
I. Why Youāll Love It
This chicken dish is anything but ordinary. The sweetātart blackberries pair beautifully with the subtle kick of jalapeƱo, all rounded out by fragrant oregano and creamy cheese. Itās colorful, fresh, and perfect for when you want a show-stopping meal without endless effort.
II. StepābyāStep Guide š½ļø
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle chicken breasts with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stuff the Chicken
Make a small slit or pocket in the thickest part of each breast. Stuff each with blackberry mixture and a few jalapeƱo slices.
3. Sear the Chicken
Heat avocado oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 2ā3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Top & Roast
Place a slice of cheese on each breast and transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 10ā12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F) and cheese is melted.
5. Rest & Serve
Let the chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing. Spoon any pan juices over the top and garnish as desired.
III. Ingredient Tips & Swaps
| Ingredient | Why It Works | Swap Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| Blackberries | Bright and juicy sweetness | Raspberries or blueberries in a pinch |
| JalapeƱos | Adds mild heat and fresh flavor | Use poblano or bell pepper if you prefer less spice |
| Mozzarella/Provolone | Melts beautifully and adds creaminess | Fontina or Monterey Jack also work well |
| Avocado Oil | Neutral and heart-healthy for searing | Use light olive oil if preferred |
IV. Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Twists:
-
Mix chopped basil or cilantro into the stuffing
-
Add a teaspoon of balsamic glaze over the top before serving for tang
LowāCarb Tips:
-
This recipe is naturally low-carb (omit bread/carb sides)
-
Serve alongside roasted veggies or cauliflower mash
What to Serve With:
-
Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
-
Grilled asparagus or zucchini
-
A light quinoa or wild-rice salad
V. Storage & MakeāAhead
Fridge:
Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheat:
Warm gently in a skillet or oven at 325°F until heated through. Add a splash of broth to prevent drying.
MakeāAhead Tip:
Assemble chicken stuffed but unseared, refrigerate overnight. Sear and bake fresh when youāre readyāitās a time-saver!
VI. Nutrition Highlights (approx. per serving)
-
Calories: ~350 kcal
-
Protein: 35 g | Carbs: 6 g (net) | Fat: 18 g
-
Fiber: 3 g
-
Sugar: 3 g
VII. FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen berries?
A: Itās best to use fresh or thawed berries and drain any liquid before stuffing to prevent sogginess.
Q: My chicken dried outāwhat went wrong?
A: Reduce oven time by a few minutes or check internal temp early. Let it rest before slicing.
Q: Can I bake without searing?
A: Yesābake at 375°F for 20ā25 minutes, but the flavor and crust wonāt be as golden without searing.
VIII. Kristyās Flavor Note
This recipe was born when blackberries were at their peak and I wanted something fresh and fun for dinner. The contrastāthe sweet burst of berries and mellow cheesinessājust felt special. Itās my go-to when I want a dinner that looks restaurant-caliber but is totally achievable at home. My kids especially love when the cheese gets all gooey and gooey!
IX. More Fresh Chicken Recipes
-
[Greek Lemon Chickpea Stuffed Chicken]
-
[Prosciutto-Wrapped Spinach Chicken Breasts]
-
[Caprese Chicken Foil Packets]
-
[Keto Buffalo Chicken Casserole]
X. Letās Woo with Flavor š
If you make this BlackberryāJalapeƱo Stuffed Chicken, Iād love to see it! Snap a photo and tag @KristyCookEats or leave a comment sharing your favorite side or twist. Letās keep cooking vibrant, weeknight-worthy dishes that excite the table! š