Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Juicy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe Everyone Loves

Culinary magic happens when a spinach stuffed chicken breast meets your kitchen creativity.

Fresh ingredients spark delightful transformations in this simple yet elegant dish.

Succulent chicken becomes a canvas for vibrant green goodness.

Crisp spinach adds unexpected layers of nutrition and flavor.

Home cooks can easily master this restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort.

Herbs and cheese complement the tender protein, creating a balanced plate.

Each bite promises a delectable journey that will impress anyone sitting at your table.

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast That Feels Fancy But Easy

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast That Feels Fancy But Easy
  • Unlock Quick Weeknight Culinary Magic: This spinach stuffed chicken breast transforms ordinary ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in less than an hour.
  • Customize With Ease: Swap cheeses, add different herbs, or include extra veggies to personalize the recipe without complicated techniques, making it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
  • Nutrition Powerhouse: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from spinach, this dish delivers a balanced meal that feels indulgent yet supports healthy eating goals.
  • Minimal Cleanup Champion: Using just a skillet and baking dish means fewer dirty dishes, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet dinner without dreading post-meal kitchen cleanup.

Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach Ingredients

Chicken:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean protein base for the main dish, look for fresh and even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Stuffing Ingredients:
  • Spinach, Cream Cheese, Mozzarella, Parmesan: Creamy and flavorful filling that adds rich texture and nutrients to the chicken.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Aromatic spice mixture that enhances the chicken's flavor profile, creating a delicious and well-seasoned dish.
Aromatics:
  • Onion, Garlic: Foundational ingredients that provide depth and savory undertones to the stuffing, choose fresh for the best flavor.

Spinach-Stuffed Chicken Breast Prep Guide

Spinach-Stuffed Chicken Breast Prep Guide

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to 375°F, getting it ready for some delicious chicken magic.

Step 2: Create Flavor Explosion

Grab a small bowl and mix together:
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Smoked paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder

Whisk these ingredients into a flavor-packed seasoning blend that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Massage the Chicken

Give each chicken breast a loving rub with the seasoning blend, making sure every inch gets coated with deliciousness.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a skillet and toss in onions and garlic.

Let them sizzle and soften, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach

Throw in the spinach and cook until it’s beautifully wilted.

Remove from heat and stir in:
  • Cream cheese
  • Mozzarella
  • Parmesan

Mix until you’ve got a creamy, cheesy spinach filling that looks irresistible.

Step 6: Prepare the Chicken Pockets

Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, creating a cozy space for the spinach mixture.

Step 7: Stuff and Bake

Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture.

Place the stuffed breasts in a baking dish and slide into the preheated oven.

Step 8: Cook to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and golden brown.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe eating.

Smart Ideas for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

  • Create a deep pocket in the chicken breast without cutting all the way through to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother, more even spinach filling.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe consumption without overcooking.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil for the first 15 minutes to keep chicken moist and prevent excessive browning.
  • Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a lighter, protein-rich alternative that maintains creamy texture.

Stuffed Chicken Storage Guide

  • Store leftover spinach stuffed chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Warm chicken at 350F for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
  • Reheat individual portions for 1-2 minutes on medium power, checking temperature to ensure even heating.
  • Verify internal temperature reaches 165F before consuming to guarantee food safety and prevent potential bacterial growth.

Chicken Stuffed With Spinach Matches

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the creamy spinach and chicken perfectly, cutting through the richness with their bright, acidic notes.
  • Match with Roasted Vegetable Side: Garlic-roasted asparagus or honey-glazed carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory stuffed chicken, adding color and extra nutrition.
  • Serve with Herbed Quinoa: Light, fluffy quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs like parsley and thyme creates a wholesome base that enhances the chicken's flavors without overwhelming the dish.
  • Add Fresh Salad Companion: A simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette brings a refreshing, zesty element that balances the creamy, cheesy chicken breast and cleanses the palate.

Stuffed Chicken With Spinach And Cheese Mixes

  • Low-Carb Keto Version: Replace cream cheese with soft goat cheese and use almond flour to coat chicken for added crunch and reduced carbohydrates.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with mashed avocado and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese to maintain creamy texture and flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Herb Spin: Incorporate fresh chopped basil, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes into spinach filling for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired variation with additional herbal notes.
  • Protein-Packed Option: Add cooked quinoa or diced grilled turkey bacon to spinach mixture for extra protein and enhanced texture without changing core recipe structure.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing with the cheeses to prevent a watery filling.

  • How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F at the thickest part to ensure it’s safe to eat.

  • What if I don't have all the cheese types listed in the recipe?

You can substitute with similar cheeses like ricotta instead of cream cheese or provolone instead of mozzarella. The key is to use cheeses that melt well and complement the spinach.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. They’ll keep well for 1-2 days in an airtight container, making them perfect for quick weeknight meals.

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Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe


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4.6 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mediterranean-inspired Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast delivers a delightful blend of fresh herbs and creamy cheese within tender chicken. Wholesome ingredients and simple preparation make this elegant dish perfect for home cooks seeking restaurant-quality flavor you’ll savor with every bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 2 pounds or 907 grams)

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Filling and Cheese:

  • 1/2 cup (75 grams) yellow onion, small diced
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 5 ounces (142 grams) fresh baby spinach
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup (113 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated parmesan cheese

Oil:

  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil, divided

Instructions

  1. Craft a zesty seasoning mixture by whisking olive oil with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small mixing bowl.
  2. Thoroughly massage the aromatic seasoning blend across each chicken breast, ensuring even coating.
  3. Warm olive oil in a skillet and sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.
  4. Introduce fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring continuously until the leaves wilt and release their moisture.
  5. Remove skillet from heat and gently fold cream cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan into the wilted spinach, creating a creamy, luxurious filling.
  6. Carefully slice a deep pocket into the side of each seasoned chicken breast, being mindful not to cut completely through.
  7. Generously fill each pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture, pressing gently to seal the opening.
  8. Transfer the stuffed chicken breasts to a prepared baking dish, arranging them with space between each piece.
  9. Roast in a preheated 375°F oven for 25-30 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature and develops a golden, slightly crisp exterior.
  10. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps redistribute the juices and maintain moisture.

Notes

  • Slice chicken breasts carefully to create an even pocket without cutting all the way through, ensuring the filling stays inside during cooking.
  • Use fresh spinach for a vibrant, crisp texture and brighter flavor compared to frozen spinach, which can be watery and less flavorful.
  • Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to help the spice blend adhere better and create a more even, flavorful crust.
  • Check internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for safe, perfectly cooked chicken that remains juicy and tender.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 487
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 641 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 43 g
  • Cholesterol: 138 mg
Katherine Pierce

Katherine Pierce

Recipe Curator & Food Educator

Expertise

  • Curating diverse recipe collections
  • Educating on global culinary traditions
  • Developing informative food content

Education

Boston University Metropolitan College
Certificate Program in the Culinary Arts
Focus: French and international cuisine techniques, Hands-on culinary training with industry professionals, Food industry insights and operations


Katherine grew up believing every dish has a story. She studied the art of food at Boston University and explored the history behind it. She loves pulling easy recipes from every corner of the world and putting them at your fingertips.
When Katherine’s not writing or testing new flavors, she’s teaching cooking classes, baking colorful mooncakes, or dreaming up new ways to mix old favorites with new twists.

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