This Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe is a tasty way to enjoy chicken! The juicy chicken is filled with creamy spinach and cheese, making every bite exciting.
If you’re like me, you’ll love how this dish looks fancy but is super simple to make. It’s perfect for dinner guests or a cozy night in! Just bake and enjoy—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender bite. If you can’t find these, chicken thighs also work well and add extra flavor!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but frozen spinach works too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture.
Cream Cheese: This gives a nice creaminess. If you want a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead. It has a similar texture and adds protein!
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan provide good flavor. You can swap with cheddar or feta cheese if you prefer. They each bring a unique twist to the filling.
Seasoning: Feel free to mix and match herbs. Fresh basil or herbs de Provence can add a beautiful touch. Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings to your liking!
What’s the Best Way to Stuff Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing chicken breasts can be tricky, but here’s how to do it well:
- First, make sure your knife is sharp when cutting the pocket. Cut slowly and carefully to avoid accidents.
- After making a pocket, be generous with the stuffing! Press the filling in gently, so it stays put without tearing the chicken.
- Using toothpicks is optional but helps keep the filling inside while cooking. Just remember to remove them before serving!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly stuffed chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes total, including cooking time. It’s a quick and simple dish that brings lots of flavors to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot by the time your chicken is ready to bake!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and carefully cut a pocket into the side by slicing horizontally. Make sure you don’t cut through completely; you want to create a nice space to hold the filling.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Now it’s time to fill those chicken pockets! Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Don’t be shy; fill them up! If you need to, you can secure the openings with toothpicks to keep everything inside while cooking.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown—this adds great flavor!
6. Bake the Chicken:
After searing, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. You can use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven. Remember to remove any toothpicks before serving. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to keep it juicy, then slice and enjoy your delicious spinach stuffed chicken breasts!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out any excess water before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help avoid a soggy filling.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken breasts a few hours in advance and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Fully Cooked?
The safest way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure there are no pink juices.
What to Serve with Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a healthy and colorful meal!
