This Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is packed with yummy spinach and creamy cheese. It’s a smart way to get your greens without it feeling like a chore!
I love how juicy the chicken stays while the filling gives it a tasty surprise. Plus, it looks fancy enough for guests, but it’s super simple to make—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work great too and provide a similar texture.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for its vibrant taste and texture. You can use frozen spinach instead; just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the filling. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a plant-based cream cheese substitute. Greek yogurt is another option that keeps it tangy and creamy!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a nice stretch and mild flavor. Feel free to swap it with provolone or cheddar based on your taste preferences. Feta could also add an interesting twist!
How Do You Secure the Stuffed Chicken without Making a Mess?
Securing the stuffed chicken is crucial to keep that delicious filling inside during cooking. Here’s how to do it simply:
- After stuffing the chicken, use toothpicks carefully to hold the pocket closed—just a few will do the trick.
- If you prefer, use kitchen twine to tie around the breast, which can be easier to remove later.
- Be gentle while handling; if it spills a bit, it’s okay! Just pop any escaping filling back in before cooking.
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (to secure the chicken)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at around 40 minutes total to enjoy this scrumptious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when it’s time to bake the chicken!
2. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is mixed well and creamy. This filling is flavorful and creamy!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Carefully take each chicken breast and, using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the thickest part of the breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through. You want a nice pocket to hold in all that tasty filling!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach mixture, using a spoon to push the filling in. After stuffing, secure the openings with toothpicks or tie them up with kitchen twine, so the filling stays inside while cooking.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown. This step adds extra flavor!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Once seared, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through and the juices run clear. The cheese filling will be melting and delicious!
7. Rest and Serve:
After removing the skillet from the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Before serving, carefully take out the toothpicks or twine. Slice the chicken if you like and enjoy your delicious, cheesy, spinach-stuffed chicken!
Bon appétit!
FAQ about Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the filling. This ensures the stuffing stays creamy and doesn’t end up watery.
What Happens if I Don’t Have Toothpicks or Twine?
No worries! If you’re out of toothpicks or kitchen twine, you can simply place the stuffed chicken breasts seam-side down in the skillet. Just ensure they’re securely packed with the filling to prevent leakage.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, avoiding drying it out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge!
