This Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is juicy and packed with flavor! It has a delicious filling of creamy spinach and cheese, making dinner feel special.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip this up! I love how the chicken stays tender while the filling oozes goodness. Plus, it’s perfect for impressing guests without fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer, you could use chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier and richer in flavor. Just adjust cooking time, as thighs might take a bit longer.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for a vibrant taste and texture. If you have frozen spinach, you can use it too; just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the filling.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or a lower-fat cream cheese. Both will give you a nice texture without compromising on flavor.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives a lovely stretch, and Parmesan offers a nice sharp flavor. You can swap mozzarella with provolone or gouda. Any hard cheese will work for Parmesan, but adjust the quantity based on your taste.
How Do I Safely Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken breasts can be tricky, but with care, it’s simple! Start by creating a pocket in each chicken breast using a sharp knife. Here’s how to do it right:
- Hold the chicken breast firmly on a cutting board.
- Insert the knife at the thick end, gently cutting towards the other side without going all the way through. Aim for a depth of about 2-3 inches.
- Be cautious and take your time. A little bit of patience here pays off!
Once stuffed, use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening. This will help keep the filling from spilling out while cooking. Remember, don’t overstuff—about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of filling per breast is perfect!
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for sealing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for cooking. So, you can have a delicious dinner ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken will cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, and minced garlic. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Don’t cut all the way through—just deep enough to hold the filling!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Take your prepared filling and stuff it into each chicken breast. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening so the filling doesn’t spill out while cooking.
5. Season the Chicken:
Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. Then, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to elevate the flavors!
6. Sear the Chicken:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a nice golden-brown color here!
7. Bake the Chicken:
Next, transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Bake them in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Let it Rest:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Remember to take out any toothpicks or twine before serving!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your easy spinach stuffed chicken breasts are ready! Serve them hot and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the filling. This helps prevent the mixture from becoming watery.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt or a reduced-fat cream cheese can be great substitutes. Both will still provide a creamy texture, but Greek yogurt will add a tangy flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts a day ahead, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are cold from the fridge.
