Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both healthy and delicious, this Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is the perfect choice. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with a savory mixture of spinach, cheese, and garlic, then baked to perfection. The result is a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. It’s an excellent option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, and it pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or salad.

Keep reading to learn how to make this impressive dish, complete with step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations.

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What is Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast?

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a dish where boneless, skinless chicken breasts are filled with a flavorful mixture of cooked spinach, cheese, garlic, and seasonings. The chicken is then baked until golden and juicy, with the stuffing creating a rich, creamy contrast. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to add some greens into your meal. The filling can be customized with different cheeses, herbs, and even vegetables, making it a versatile and nutritious dinner option.

Ingredients List for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful stuffed chicken dish:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)

For the Spinach Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar cheese)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Notes:

• Chicken: Use medium-sized boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If the chicken breasts are thick, you may need to cut a pocket into them carefully for stuffing.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach works best, but you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all the excess moisture before using.
• Cheese: A combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy, cheesy filling. You can switch up the cheeses depending on your preference—cheddar, feta, or goat cheese would also work well.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to make adjustments based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Here are a few substitution ideas and variations:

Substitutions:

• Chicken: You can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result, though they may be harder to stuff due to their smaller size.
• Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese blend, try using goat cheese, feta, or cheddar for the filling. Each one will add its own unique flavor.
• Spinach: If you don’t have spinach on hand, you can substitute with kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula for a peppery twist.

Variations:

• Add Sundried Tomatoes: For a burst of extra flavor, add chopped sundried tomatoes to the spinach mixture.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño to the filling.
• Mushroom and Spinach Stuffing: Sauté some chopped mushrooms with the spinach for an earthier flavor in the filling.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make your spinach stuffed chicken breasts? Follow these simple steps for a perfectly flavorful, juicy dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. Be careful to leave about ½ inch intact around the edges to hold the filling.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts on both sides (and inside the pockets) with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Set them aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Make the Spinach Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. If using frozen spinach, skip this step but make sure the spinach is fully thawed and drained.

In a medium bowl, combine the cooked spinach, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until the filling is creamy and evenly combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Spoon the spinach filling into each chicken breast pocket, using about 2-3 tablespoons per breast. Secure the edges with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside while cooking.

Step 6: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. You’re not cooking them through at this point, just getting a nice golden crust.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (or if using a separate baking dish, carefully transfer the chicken). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy chicken. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.

How to Cook Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut and Season Chicken: Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Make the Filling: Cook spinach, then combine with cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings.
4. Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the filling into the chicken breast pockets.
5. Sear the Chicken: Sear the stuffed chicken breasts in a hot skillet until golden.
6. Bake: Transfer to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes and how to avoid them for perfectly stuffed chicken breasts every time:

• Overstuffing the Chicken: Be careful not to overfill the chicken breasts, as this can cause the filling to spill out while cooking. Stick to about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per chicken breast.
• Undercooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Not Sealing the Edges: If the filling is spilling out during cooking, use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breast and keep the filling inside.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This spinach stuffed chicken breast is not only flavorful but can be beautifully presented for a special occasion or dinner party. Here’s how to serve it:

How to Serve Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast:

• With Vegetables: Pair the stuffed chicken with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
• Over Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of pasta tossed in olive oil or a light cream sauce to complement the cheesy spinach filling.
• With Rice or Quinoa: For a healthier option, serve the chicken alongside brown rice or quinoa. The grains will absorb any delicious juices from the chicken.

Presentation Ideas:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top of the chicken for a pop of color and flavor.
• Slice for a Dramatic Effect: Slice each chicken breast on a diagonal to reveal the cheesy spinach filling inside. This makes for a beautiful presentation.
• Family-Style: Serve the stuffed chicken on a large platter with sides for a family-style dinner.

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe Tips

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid dry or undercooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just sear and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
• Be Generous with the Cheese: The combination of cheeses in the filling is what makes this dish so delicious, so don’t skimp! Make sure you use enough to create a creamy, flavorful filling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes! You can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding it to the filling. Too much liquid in the filling will make the chicken soggy.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed

chicken breasts in advance. Simply stuff the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, sear and bake as directed.

3. Can I freeze spinach stuffed chicken breasts?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked spinach stuffed chicken breasts. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftover spinach stuffed chicken, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the oven helps retain the chicken's crispiness.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! You can add finely chopped mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to the spinach mixture for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a simple yet impressive dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The creamy spinach filling, paired with perfectly seasoned chicken, makes for a delicious meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a well-rounded, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a tasty and nutritious dinner that’s easy to make and sure to become a favorite!

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