Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dish: Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts! This easy and healthy recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something quick but impressive. With just six main ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful and nutritious meal that everyone will love. The enticing combination of succulent chicken breasts filled with a creamy spinach mixture will tantalize your taste buds and leave your family asking for seconds. What’s more, this Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is versatile enough to complement any side dish, making it a perfect fit for any occasion.
Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this dish is a breeze to prepare. It’s not only delicious but is also packed with nutrients thanks to the fresh spinach, making it a healthier choice for dinner. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken, ensuring a delightful dining experience that feels special, even on a busy night. In just a few simple steps, you can create a hearty meal that’s great for both family dinners and entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
- Family-Friendly: A tasty way to get everyone to eat their greens!
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and cook time.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and nutrients from spinach.
- Customizable: Options to adapt ingredients for dietary preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: Looks gorgeous on the plate, making it perfect for entertaining.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making your Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C), as this high temperature helps achieve a nice golden finish on the chicken. Ensure you have a large cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan ready for searing the chicken and transferring it to the oven. You’ll also need a cutting board, sharp knife for slicing, mixing bowls, and a spoon for stuffing the chicken.
Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go, known as mise en place, will make the cooking process smoother. Ensure to pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning to aid in browning during searing. A couple of toothpicks will also come in handy to keep your spinach stuffing inside the chicken while cooking.
Ingredients
- 4 8-oz Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 6 oz Fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 medium Roma tomato, thinly sliced into 8 slices
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This temperature will ensure that your Chicken Breasts get that desirable golden color while staying juicy inside. It’s essential to have your oven hot and ready when the chicken is stuffed and prepped for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with sea salt and black pepper. Then, carefully cut a horizontal slit into each breast, creating a pocket that will be filled with the flavorful spinach mixture. This pocket will not only add flavor but also keep the chicken moist during the cooking process.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
In a large bowl, steam the fresh spinach for 2-3 minutes in the microwave until wilted, or you may sauté it in a pan on the stove for about 3-5 minutes. The goal is to reduce the volume of the spinach while intensifying its flavor. Allow it to cool before moving to the next step. Squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a soggy filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing
In another mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and minced garlic, stirring until well blended. Add in 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, creating a creamy base. Once your spinach has cooled down, fold it into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for the best flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Stuff the Chicken
With the filling ready, use a spoon to carefully fill the pockets of the chicken breasts with the spinach mixture. Don’t overstuff; you want a snug fit. To secure the filling inside, insert toothpicks into the openings of each chicken breast to hold the stuffing in place while cooking.
Step 6: Sear the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place your stuffed chicken breasts into the skillet and sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach a beautiful golden brown color. This step locks in the flavors and juices, creating a lovely crust.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Top each stuffed chicken breast with two slices of Roma tomato and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This step ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese has melted beautifully.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey or lean pork tenderloin for a different protein story.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even artichokes to the spinach mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Spices: Enhance the filling with spices like red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for an aromatic twist.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of your favorite grain, such as quinoa or brown rice, to soak up the delicious flavors.
Tips
- If you have leftovers, this chicken is great in salads or wraps the next day.
- For a complete meal, consider preparing a side of garlic bread or a simple pasta dish.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 690mg
FAQs
Can I make this spinach stuffed chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the chicken breasts ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate until you are ready to cook. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the frozen spinach before using it in the recipe.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free, try using dairy-free cream cheese or mashed avocado for creaminess.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is essential for perfect results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. With its easy preparation, nutritious ingredients, and irresistible flavors, it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you are cooking for family or guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make it your own! We’d love to hear how your chicken turns out, so be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below. Get ready to enjoy a scrumptious, healthy meal that everyone will love!
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Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy and healthy recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something quick but impressive.
Ingredients
- 4 8-oz Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 6 oz Fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 medium Roma tomato, thinly sliced into 8 slices
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This temperature will ensure that your Chicken Breasts get that desirable golden color while staying juicy inside.
- Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with sea salt and black pepper. Then, carefully cut a horizontal slit into each breast, creating a pocket that will be filled with the flavorful spinach mixture.
- In a large bowl, steam the fresh spinach for 2-3 minutes in the microwave until wilted, or you may sauté it in a pan on the stove for about 3-5 minutes. Allow it to cool before moving to the next step.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and minced garlic, stirring until well blended. Add in 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- With the filling ready, use a spoon to carefully fill the pockets of the chicken breasts with the spinach mixture.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place your stuffed chicken breasts into the skillet and sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Top each stuffed chicken breast with two slices of Roma tomato and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes.
Notes
Ensure that the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking. Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 690 mg
- Protein: 45 g