This Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe is a tasty way to enjoy healthy eating. The chicken is filled with creamy spinach and cheese, making every bite delicious!
Honestly, who can resist a juicy chicken breast loaded with cheesy goodness? I love serving this with a side of rice or veggies – it makes dinner feel fancy without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You can use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat; they’ll add a bit more flavor and stay juicy.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for a soft texture, but frozen spinach works just fine! Make sure you thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cream Cheese: This gives a rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese is a similar, lower-fat alternative. You could also use ricotta for a different texture.
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness, but feel free to swap it with cheddar or gouda. Parmesan adds a nice sharpness; you can use Pecorino Romano instead for a stronger flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the dish, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work too. Use 1/4 teaspoon to substitute one clove of garlic.
How Do I Properly Stuff the Chicken Breast?
Stuffing chicken breasts can feel tricky, but it’s quite straightforward! Follow these tips to get it right:
- Make the pocket carefully with a sharp knife. Start by slicing lengthwise along the side, ensuring you leave the bottom intact.
- Don’t overfill! You want enough filling to enjoy the flavor but not so much that it spills out.
- Using toothpicks can help keep the filling from oozing out while cooking. Just remember to remove them before serving!
With this technique, you’ll have perfectly stuffed chicken that looks good and tastes fantastic. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes to have this delicious dish ready for dinner. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready by the time you’re done prepping the chicken!
2. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This will be the tasty filling for your chicken!
3. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Take a sharp knife and carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Make sure you don’t cut all the way through; just create enough space to stuff the filling inside.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Generously stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture. Use your fingers to push the filling in there, but be careful not to overfill. If necessary, secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling safe inside.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and look delicious!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that your chicken is cooked all the way through and safe to eat!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Discard any toothpicks used to secure the filling, and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle, making the chicken super juicy!
Now that you’re done, dig in and enjoy this delicious and filling meal with your favorite side dishes!
FAQ about Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the cheese mixture. This will help keep the filling from becoming too watery!
What Can I Serve with Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal!
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven until heated through. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist if necessary!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. It’s best to cook them within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
