A savory and satisfying stuffed chicken breast filled with creamy cheese, spinach, and seasonings for a wholesome, delicious meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a simple yet elegant way to elevate your chicken dinner. This recipe is packed with creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic, making each bite juicy and flavorful. It’s a perfect combination of comfort food and healthy ingredients, making it a great choice for family dinners or weeknight meals. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be on the table in under 40 minutes!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, cooked
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing through the middle, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture, then secure the opening with toothpicks.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Variations
- Add Herbs: Stir in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme into the cheese mixture for added flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Add Bacon: For extra richness, crumble cooked bacon and mix it into the stuffing.
- Cheese Swap: Use different cheeses such as goat cheese, cheddar, or Parmesan to vary the flavor profile.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the stuffed chicken breasts with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad to keep it low-carb.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until hot.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it with the cream cheese.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken breasts and stuff them ahead of time, then refrigerate them until ready to bake.
3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check using a meat thermometer.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use goat cheese, cream cheese, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or ricotta.
5. Can I bake this in a skillet instead of the oven?
Yes, you can cook the stuffed chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat. Sear them on both sides, then cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Can I serve this with a sauce?
Yes! A creamy garlic sauce or a balsamic glaze would be delicious drizzled over the stuffed chicken.
7. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. They’ll need a slightly shorter cooking time.
8. How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To boost the flavor, add extra garlic or lemon zest to the filling. You could also marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon, and herbs before stuffing.
9. Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to cook, bake from frozen for about 40 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
10. What side dishes go well with this recipe?
This stuffed chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With a creamy spinach and cheese filling, this dish is as comforting as it is nutritious. It’s an easy, low-effort way to turn chicken breasts into a flavorful and indulgent meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!
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Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Delight in this Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe, filled with creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic for a comforting and flavorful meal! This dish is easy to make and can be on the table in under 40 minutes. The perfect combination of healthy ingredients and indulgent flavors, making it ideal for family dinners, weeknight meals, or a special occasion. Juicy, tender chicken with a creamy stuffing—what’s not to love?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, cooked
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing through the middle, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine cooked spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff the Chicken: Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling inside.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful stuffed chicken!
Notes
- Add Herbs: Stir in fresh basil, parsley, or thyme into the cheese mixture for added flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Swap: Feel free to use goat cheese, cheddar, or Parmesan for a different flavor.
- Low-Carb Version: Pair with roasted vegetables or a salad for a low-carb meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free