Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Looking for a dish that’s both elegant and packed with flavor? This Stuffed Chicken recipe is the perfect choice! Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with a flavorful filling—whether it’s cheese, spinach, herbs, or a combination—and then baked to golden perfection. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the stuffing to your taste, and it’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a more special meal. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with minimal prep time.

Read on to discover how to make the perfect stuffed chicken, complete with ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips.

this Recipe

What is Stuffed Chicken?

Stuffed Chicken is a dish where boneless, skinless chicken breasts are filled with a mixture of ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, herbs, or meats like ham or bacon. The chicken is often seared to create a golden crust and then baked to juicy perfection. The stuffing not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist as it cooks. This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for endless combinations of fillings to suit your preferences. Whether it’s stuffed with spinach and cheese, mushrooms, or something more unique, stuffed chicken is a great way to elevate a simple chicken breast.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic stuffed chicken:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

For the Stuffing (Spinach & Cheese Version):

• 2 cups fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella (or cheddar cheese)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 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 slice a pocket carefully for stuffing.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal, but frozen spinach works too. Be sure to squeeze out any excess water if using frozen spinach.
• 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 are also great options.

Substitutions and Variations

This stuffed chicken recipe is versatile, so feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have or your flavor preferences. Below are some substitution ideas and variations to try:

Substitutions:

• Chicken: Swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, or try pork chops for something different.
• Cheese: Try using different cheeses like goat cheese, feta, or Gruyère for a richer or tangier flavor profile.
• Spinach: You can substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula if you want a slightly different flavor in the filling.

Variations:

• Mushroom Stuffed Chicken: Sauté some mushrooms with garlic and herbs and add them to the stuffing mix for an earthy flavor.
• Sundried Tomato & Basil Stuffed Chicken: Add chopped sundried tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.
• Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken: Wrap each stuffed chicken breast in bacon before baking for extra flavor and crispiness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make perfectly stuffed chicken breasts that are juicy and flavorful:

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. Make sure to leave about ½ inch of the edges intact to hold the stuffing.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Set them aside while you prepare the stuffing.

Step 4: Make the Stuffing

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the filling is well-mixed and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the pockets of the chicken breasts, 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-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage—just develop a nice crust.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken

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

Step 8: Let the Chicken Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

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

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Make the Filling: Sauté spinach and mix it with cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings.
4. Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the filling into the chicken breast pockets and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
5. Sear the Chicken: Sear the stuffed chicken in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side.
6. Bake: Transfer to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.
7. Serve: Let the chicken rest before serving and pair with your favorite sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making stuffed chicken, so your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Overstuffing the Chicken: Be careful not to overfill the chicken breasts, as too much stuffing can cause the chicken to tear or the filling to spill out during cooking.
• Underseasoning: Make sure to season both the chicken and the filling. Bland chicken can be disappointing, so don’t skip this step.
• Not Securing the Filling: If the chicken breasts are not sealed properly, the filling can leak out. Use toothpicks to secure the edges if needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This stuffed chicken dish is flavorful and beautiful enough for special occasions, but it can also be served as a simple weeknight meal. Here are some presentation and serving ideas:

How to Serve Stuffed Chicken:

• With Vegetables: Serve with roasted or sautéed vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or broccoli to keep the meal light and balanced.
• With Pasta or Rice: Pair the stuffed chicken with pasta or rice and a light sauce, such as a lemon-butter or garlic sauce, for a more hearty meal.
• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad complements the richness of the stuffed chicken nicely.

Presentation Ideas:

• Slice for a Visual Impact: Slice each chicken breast on a diagonal to reveal the colorful filling inside. This makes for a stunning presentation, especially for guests.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the dish with fresh parsley, basil, or even rosemary for added flavor and a pop of color.
• Family-Style Serving: Serve the stuffed chicken on a large platter for a family-style dinner, with all the sides arranged around it.

Stuffed Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking or undercooking, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This makes it a great option for meal prep or when entertaining.
• Secure with Toothpicks: If your chicken breasts are packed with filling, use toothpicks to keep the filling inside while they cook.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess water before mixing it with the cheese for the filling.

2. Can I prepare stuffed chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply sear and bake as directed.

3. Can I freeze stuffed chicken?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked stuffed chicken breasts. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

4. What should I do with leftover stuffing?

If you have leftover stuffing, you can use it as a filling for an omelet, mix it into pasta, or even serve it as a dip with crackers.

5. How do I reheat leftover stuffed chicken?

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

Conclusion

This Stuffed Chicken recipe is the perfect way to turn a simple chicken breast into a flavorful, impressive meal. With a creamy spinach and cheese filling, or any stuffing variation you choose, this dish is sure to please. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, stuffed chicken is a dish that never disappoints. Try it tonight and enjoy the flavors of this easy-to-make yet gourmet dish!

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