This tasty dish features juicy chicken breasts stuffed with spinach and cream cheese. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor—perfect for impressing your family or guests!
Honestly, who can say no to cheesy, spinach goodness inside tender chicken? I love serving it with a side of rice to soak up all the tasty juices!
The best part? It’s quick to whip up on a busy night, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the stars of this dish. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work well too, adding more flavor and juiciness.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal, but frozen spinach can be a great substitute! Just be sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture before mixing in.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead for a similar texture, but the flavor will differ a bit.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan create a wonderful cheesy flavor. You can swap mozzarella for provolone or gouda, and if you’re a fan of stronger flavors, try feta or blue cheese!
How Do I Safely Stuff Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing chicken can feel tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll nail it! First, ensure you have a sharp knife for easy cutting. Here’s how:
- Hold the chicken breast steady, and insert the knife into the thickest part at an angle, making a pocket.
- Be cautious not to cut all the way through; you want enough space for the filling.
- Stuff the pocket with the filling, using a spoon or your fingers to pack it in gently.
- Once stuffed, you can secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.
Just remember: the key to juicy stuffed chicken is not overcooking it, so keep an eye on the temperature!
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 4 oz 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 delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to cook, including searing and baking. With a total of 40-45 minutes, you can have a deliciously cheesy and satisfying meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for the chicken when you are done preparing it.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic until it’s a creamy consistency. Make sure everything is well combined—this is what makes the filling so delicious!
3. Stuff the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and carefully make a horizontal slit through the thickest part to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Season the inside and outside of each breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Then, generously fill each pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture.
4. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they are nicely golden brown.
5. Bake!
After searing, carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps to lock in the juices!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken to reveal the beautiful stuffing inside, and serve with your favorite side dishes like rice, salad, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ about Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it into the stuffing. This will prevent the chicken from becoming watery during cooking.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Through?
The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that it’s safe to eat and perfectly juicy!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts ahead of time. Just cover them tightly and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, or gently reheat in the microwave. Enjoy the flavors again!
