This easy spinach stuffed chicken breast is a winner! Juicy chicken is filled with creamy, flavorful spinach and cheese. It’s pretty enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner!
Seriously, this dish makes me feel like a chef! I love serving it with a side of rice or salad for a complete meal that impresses without all the fuss. You’ll feel like a superstar! 🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for stuffing. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer!
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a great texture and flavor. If fresh isn’t available, go for frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess water, so your stuffing isn’t watery!
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese keeps the filling creamy. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. It will change the flavor a bit, but can still be tasty!
Cheeses: I love mozzarella for that melty goodness, but feel free to mix in different cheeses like cheddar or feta for a twist. Just keep the total amount about half a cup.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes such a difference in flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder will do, but use less since it’s more concentrated!
How Do You Safely Stuff Chicken Breasts?
Cutting pockets in chicken breasts can be tricky! Follow these tips to ensure your stuffed chicken turns out great.
- Use a sharp knife for a clean cut. Start at the thicker end of the breast and gently slice towards the thinner end. Aim for a pocket about 2-3 inches deep.
- Don’t cut all the way through! You want to create a pouch that holds in the filling.
- After stuffing, press firmly to seal the mixture inside but be careful not to tear the chicken.
This method keeps all those delicious flavors locked in for a juicy meal! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for cooking, so expect to be enjoying your meal in about 40 minutes total! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that still feels special.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the chicken. This way, it will be ready to go when you’re done stuffing!
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix everything together until it’s well blended. This delicious filling is going to be the highlight of your chicken!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and carefully cut a pocket into the side with a sharp knife. Make sure not to cut all the way through—just enough to make a space for the filling. Think of it as making a little pouch for all that tasty goodness!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to fill those chicken pockets! Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket, gently pressing to pack it in. Don’t worry if a little spills out—just do your best to keep it inside.
5. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown. This step seals in the flavors and gives your chicken a lovely color!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear (you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy and delicious. Slice it open to reveal that beautiful filling, and enjoy your yummy spinach stuffed chicken breasts! They’re sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will prevent the filling from becoming watery and help it hold its flavor.
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Fully Cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken breast – the juices should run clear, and the meat should not be pink.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and stuff it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, you may need to increase the baking time by a few minutes if it’s still cold when you place it in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it for a quicker option.
