Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor, Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is the perfect choice. Packed with a creamy spinach filling and baked to perfection, this dish is sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, this recipe is a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is perfect for those who want a balanced meal.
• Low Carb Option: Ideal for keto or low-carb diets.
• Versatile and Elegant: Great for dinner parties or simple family meals.
• Easy to Customize: You can tweak the stuffing ingredients to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup cooked, squeezed dry)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open them like a book.
3. Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic, and Parmesan (if using). Mix until well incorporated.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

1. Divide the spinach mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, placing it on one side of each breast.
2. Fold the other side of the chicken over the filling and secure with toothpicks if needed.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

Step 5: Serve

• Remove toothpicks before serving and pair with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

• Ensure Even Cooking: Choose chicken breasts of similar size to cook evenly.
• Secure the Filling: Toothpicks or kitchen twine can prevent the filling from spilling out.
• Add Variety: Include sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or chopped artichokes in the filling for extra flavor.
• Make it Ahead: Assemble the stuffed chicken ahead of time and store in the fridge until ready to cook.

Why Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is Perfect for Your Diet

This dish is loaded with protein from the chicken and essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and fiber from the spinach. It’s satisfying yet light, making it a great option for health-conscious eaters. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can easily be adjusted to fit a dairy-free lifestyle by swapping cream cheese and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze spinach stuffed chicken breasts?

Yes, you can freeze them before or after cooking. If freezing before, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Absolutely! Thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing it with the cheese and seasonings.

Conclusion

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious and healthy recipe that combines creamy, cheesy spinach goodness with juicy chicken. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a meal that’s both indulgent and nutritious!

Serving and Storage Tips for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

To ensure you get the most out of your Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast, follow these helpful serving and storage tips:

Serving Suggestions

1. Pair with a Side Dish:
   • For a low-carb option, serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini.
   • If you prefer carbs, pair with garlic mashed potatoes, quinoa, or rice pilaf.
2. Top It Off:
   • Drizzle with a creamy garlic sauce or a balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a vibrant touch.
3. Serve Family-Style or Individually:
   • For a dinner party, slice each chicken breast into medallions to create an elegant presentation.
   • Keep it simple for a family meal by serving whole portions alongside hearty sides.

Storage Tips

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Place leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Leftovers

• Wrap each cooked chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tips

1. In the Oven:
   • Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
   • Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
2. On the Stovetop:
   • Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Cover with a lid and warm for 8-10 minutes.
3. Microwave:
   • Slice the chicken for quicker, even heating. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway.

Make-Ahead Tip

• You can prepare and stuff the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

With these serving and storage tips, your Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast will stay fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy whenever you need a satisfying meal!

1. Can I prepare Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

2. What can I use as a substitute for cream cheese in the filling?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese alternatives.

3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking?

To keep the filling secure, avoid overstuffing the chicken breasts. Use toothpicks to hold the edges together or tie with kitchen twine. Additionally, ensure the skillet is preheated to properly sear the chicken, creating a natural seal.

4. Can I cook Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Print