Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick, wholesome meal for your family, this recipe has you covered. With a blend of juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach, this dish is packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition. It's a comfort food classic with a gourmet twist that’s perfect for any season.
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Skillet or frying pan
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Toothpicks
- Tongs
- Meat Thermometer Optional
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- ½ cup cream cheese softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- ¼ tsp nutmeg optional, for added depth
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and, using a sharp knife, slice a pocket into each breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
- Spoon the filling into the pocket of each chicken breast, ensuring it’s packed evenly. Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling in place.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the chicken to an oven-safe baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks, garnish with parsley and Parmesan (if desired), and serve immediately.