This easy spinach stuffed chicken breast is a great way to add some greens to your meal. The tender chicken is filled with creamy spinach and cheese, making it a tasty treat.
I love how this dish impresses everyone but is simple to make! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or when I have friends over. Plus, leftovers are just as yummy the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but you can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat. They stay juicier and are easier to stuff!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal, but frozen spinach works too—just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water. I find that using baby spinach gives a milder flavor.
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture to the filling. If you’re dairy-free, try a non-dairy cream cheese. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt.
Cheeses: Mozzarella bring gooeyness while Parmesan adds a saltiness. If you want, swap mozzarella for provolone or use a dairy-free cheese. Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite cheese!
Olive Oil: You can use any cooking oil, like canola or avocado oil, depending on your preference. I love olive oil for its flavor and health benefits.
How Do I Cut the Chicken for Stuffing?
Cutting the pocket for stuffing can be tricky, but it’s essential to hold the filling inside. Here’s how to do it safely and effectively:
- Place the chicken breast flat on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice into the thickest side of the chicken breast.
- Cut horizontally, creating a pocket, but don’t slice all the way through—leave about half an inch uncut at the edge, so it holds the filling.
- Keep the pocket wide enough to fit your filling but not so wide that it spills out when cooking.
A little practice will make you a pro in no time! Just take your time, and you’ll get it right.
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 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook. So in total, you’ll need about 45-50 minutes. It’s a quick and impressive dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives it time to get nice and hot while you prepare your chicken.
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Stir well until everything is combined and creamy. This filling is going to be the star of the dish!
3. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Take each chicken breast and carefully cut a pocket on the side. Don’t cut all the way through—just enough to create a little space for the filling. It’s important to keep the filling inside while cooking!
4. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle a little salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on each chicken breast. This step is crucial to infuse flavor into the chicken along with the delicious filling.
5. Stuff the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to fill each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture. Stuff them as generously as you like! Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening and keep the filling from spilling out while they cook.
6. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This helps lock in the juices!
7. Bake the Chicken:
Once both sides are nicely browned, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for around 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Rest and Serve:
After baking, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This waiting period allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken even more tender. Finally, remove any toothpicks or twine, slice, and enjoy your lovely spinach stuffed chicken breasts!
Bon Appétit!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture. This prevents the filling from becoming watery. About 1/2 cup of frozen spinach is equivalent to 1 cup of fresh.
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Fully Cooked?
The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken—once it reads 165°F (74°C), your chicken is safe to eat!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Make sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave, making sure to check that the chicken is heated through before serving.
