Description
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe offers a delicious and nutritious main course featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a savory blend of spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Baked to perfection, this meal combines creamy, cheesy flavors with wholesome greens for an easy, satisfying dinner that’s perfect for low-carb and gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
Filling
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken later.
- Sauté Spinach and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic with cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix thoroughly to create the stuffing.
- Prepare Chicken Breasts: Carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, avoiding cutting through completely. Season both sides of each breast with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the pockets of each chicken breast. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and ensure moist, flavorful meat.
Notes
- Prepare the filling a day in advance to save time on cooking day.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or chopped artichokes to the filling for extra flavor variations.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad.
