This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a flavorful and healthy dish filled with creamy spinach and cheese, wrapped in juicy chicken. It’s perfect for a satisfying dinner that feels indulgent but is actually packed with nutrients!
📋 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🐔
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🛢️
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
- 1 teaspoon paprika 🌶️
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
For the Spinach Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 🛢️
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped 🥬
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened 🧀
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat) 🌶️
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Butterfly the chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the chicken:
- Rub the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Make the Spinach Filling:
- Cook the spinach:
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Mix the filling:
- Remove the spinach from heat and let it cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stuff the Chicken:
- Fill the chicken breasts:
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture, using toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
4. Sear and Bake the Chicken:
- Sear the chicken:
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil, then sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake the chicken:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese filling is hot and bubbly.
5. Serve:
- Rest and serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve the Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 40-45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal per serving
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious and nutritious dinner that’s bursting with creamy spinach and cheese flavors, all wrapped in tender, juicy chicken! 🥬🍗🧀