These Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a tasty dinner choice! The chicken is filled with creamy spinach and cheese, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Cooking these is a breeze! I love that I can make a delicious meal in about 30 minutes. Serve it with rice or a salad, and you’ve got a winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for stuffing. If you prefer a leaner option, you might use turkey breasts instead, though adjust cooking time for thinner cuts!
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrition. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives a rich and creamy texture. For a lighter option, you could use Greek yogurt, but this will change the flavor profile slightly. Regular ricotta cheese works well too!
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella adds that gooey cheese stretch. Feel free to substitute with provolone, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really boosts the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead; about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder would do the trick.
How Do I Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken breasts can be tricky, but with a few tips, it’s easier! First, ensure you create a proper pocket. Here’s how:
- Use a sharp knife and slice into the side of the chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Be gentle while stuffing to avoid tearing. Spoon in the filling, and don’t overstuff! It should fit snugly.
- Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening. Make sure you remove them before serving!
Start with a few spoonfuls of filling and add more as needed. This method helps to keep your filling intact during cooking.
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Spinach Filling:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing chicken)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be ready when you finish preparing your chicken.
2. Prepare the Spinach Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together your chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is creamy and blended, creating a delicious filling for the chicken.
3. Create the Chicken Pockets:
Take a sharp knife and carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want them to still be held together on one side.
4. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
Take your creamy spinach filling and stuff each chicken breast with about an equal amount. Be careful not to overstuff! Once filled, secure the opening using toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside during cooking.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken breasts in the hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Once browned, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
After removing the chicken from the oven, let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Remove the toothpicks or twine, slice, and serve. Enjoy your delicious spinach stuffed chicken!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the cheese, to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a different option, you can replace cream cheese with ricotta or Greek yogurt for a lighter filling. Keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the texture slightly, but they will still taste delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. Make sure to cover it to retain moisture while reheating!
Can I Bake the Chicken Without Searing First?
Yes, you can bake the chicken directly without searing it! Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s fully cooked. However, searing adds flavor and a nice golden crust, so it’s recommended for the best taste!
