Looking for a light, healthy, and delicious dinner? This Healthy Mushroom-Stuffed Chicken Breast is the perfect choice. It features tender chicken breasts stuffed with a savory filling of mushrooms, spinach, and melted cheese. Not only is it low-calorie, but it’s packed with flavor and makes for a satisfying, nutritious meal that’s ideal for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines a hearty, healthy stuffing made from mushrooms, spinach, and cheese, stuffed into juicy chicken breasts. It’s the perfect blend of flavors without being too heavy. The creamy filling of cream cheese and mozzarella complements the earthy mushrooms and leafy spinach, creating a comforting yet low-calorie dish. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious chicken dinner while sticking to a healthier eating plan. Plus, it’s easy to make and ready in under an hour, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
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4 chicken breasts
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 cup mushrooms, chopped
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1/2 cup spinach, chopped
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1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup shredded mozzarella
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and sauté until they are soft, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the spinach and cook for 2 minutes, until it wilts. Remove from heat and set aside.
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In a bowl, mix the cooked mushrooms and spinach with the cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing through the thickest part of the breast without cutting all the way through.
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Stuff each chicken breast with the mushroom mixture, ensuring it is well-packed.
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Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
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Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy, savory meal!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Add herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added to the stuffing for an extra burst of flavor.
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Use different cheese: If you prefer, you can substitute mozzarella with feta, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar for a different twist on the filling.
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Add nuts: For added texture, consider incorporating finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pine nuts into the stuffing mixture.
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Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stuffing for a bit of heat.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the stuffed chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until heated through.
FAQs
Can I prepare the stuffed chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s recommended to use thawed chicken breasts for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If you use frozen chicken, you’ll need to increase the cooking time.
Can I use a different vegetable instead of spinach?
Yes, you can substitute spinach with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard. You can also try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
What can I serve this with?
This stuffed chicken pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, quinoa, brown rice, or a simple salad for a well-rounded, healthy meal.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any gluten-based ingredients.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute the cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives or use a cashew-based cream cheese.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
You can try making this recipe in a slow cooker, but it’s best to sear the chicken breasts first before stuffing them and placing them in the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 3-4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
Can I use other types of meat for stuffing?
Yes, you can use turkey breasts or pork chops as a substitute for chicken. Just ensure they are thick enough to hold the stuffing.
Conclusion
This Healthy Mushroom-Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a perfect combination of savory mushrooms, spinach, and creamy cheese tucked inside tender chicken breasts. It’s a healthy yet indulgent meal that’s full of flavor and satisfying without being too heavy. Whether you’re looking to maintain a healthy eating routine or just want a delicious dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.
