Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Are you looking for a flavorful, protein-packed dish that feels like a gourmet meal but is surprisingly easy to make? This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is just what you need! Tender chicken breasts are filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, then baked to golden perfection. It’s the perfect combination of juicy chicken, nutritious spinach, and cheesy goodness that’s great for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion.

Whether you're cooking for your family or looking to impress guests, this spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe will do the trick! Read on for step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to customize the dish to your liking.

this Recipe

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What is Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast?

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious dish that features chicken breasts filled with a rich, creamy spinach and cheese mixture. The chicken is typically seasoned, seared for a crispy exterior, then baked until cooked through. The stuffing is made with fresh spinach, garlic, and a mix of cheeses such as cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy filling, and flavorful spinach makes for a healthy, low-carb, and nutrient-rich meal.

It’s a versatile recipe that pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes, making it a fantastic meal for any occasion.

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Ingredients List for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Let’s get started by gathering all the ingredients you’ll need to make this savory stuffed chicken dish:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Toothpicks to secure the chicken (optional)

For the Spinach Filling:

• 3 cups fresh spinach (about 5 oz)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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Ingredient List for the Spinach Filling

The filling is what makes this dish extra special! Here are the ingredients you'll need for the cheesy spinach filling:

• Fresh spinach: For that fresh, slightly earthy flavor, sautéed spinach is perfect for the stuffing. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water.
• Cheeses: A combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan adds creaminess and flavor to the filling.
• Garlic: Adds depth and richness to the filling, making it savory and flavorful.

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Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is very flexible, and you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

• Different cheeses: Swap out the mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. You can also use feta for a tangy twist.
• Add herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor in the stuffing.
• Dairy-free version: Use a dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternative to make the filling without any dairy.
• Use chicken thighs: For a juicier option, you can stuff boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes: For a burst of tangy flavor, mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the spinach filling.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process to make your spinach stuffed chicken breasts turn out perfectly every time.

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast. Be careful not to slice all the way through; you want to create a deep pocket for the stuffing.
• Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

2. Make the Spinach Filling:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If you're using frozen spinach, make sure it's well-drained and just stir it into the garlic until heated through.
• Transfer the spinach to a mixing bowl. Add the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.

3. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:

• Divide the spinach mixture evenly and spoon it into each chicken breast pocket. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.

4. Sear the Chicken:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.

5. Bake the Chicken:

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (if you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the chicken to a baking dish) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

6. Rest and Serve:

• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve with your favorite side dishes.

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How to Cook Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of the cooking process:

1. Season and prepare the chicken: Cut pockets into the chicken breasts and season them well.
2. Make the spinach filling: Sauté spinach with garlic, then mix with cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
3. Stuff the chicken: Fill each chicken breast with the creamy spinach mixture.
4. Sear and bake: Sear the chicken breasts to get a golden crust, then bake until fully cooked.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing the chicken: Be mindful of how much filling you put into the chicken breast. Overstuffing can cause the filling to spill out while cooking.
• Not sealing the chicken properly: If you’re worried about the filling leaking, use toothpicks to secure the opening of the chicken pocket.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Not draining the spinach: If using frozen spinach, be sure to squeeze out all the excess water to avoid making the filling too watery.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Spinach stuffed chicken breasts are versatile and can be paired with many side dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• With roasted vegetables: Serve the chicken alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.
• On a bed of mashed potatoes or rice: The creamy filling pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice that can soak up the flavors.
• With a fresh salad: For a lighter option, serve the chicken with a crisp garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.

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How to Serve Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Here are a few ways you can serve this dish:

• On a plate with sides: Serve each chicken breast individually with a side of vegetables, potatoes, or rice.
• Family-style: Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a large serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Sliced into medallions: For a fancier presentation, slice the chicken breasts into thick medallions, exposing the creamy spinach filling inside.

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Presentation Ideas for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds color and brightness to the dish.
• Sliced for a dramatic effect: Slice the chicken breasts diagonally before serving to reveal the beautiful spinach filling inside.
• Serve on a wooden board: For a rustic presentation, serve the stuffed chicken on a wooden cutting board with sides arranged around it.

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Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe Tips

• Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the pocket into the chicken breast. It should be deep enough to hold the filling but not slice all the way through.
• Pre-wilt the spinach before mixing it with the cheese to remove excess moisture. This ensures the filling stays creamy and doesn’t turn watery.
• Don’t overcook the chicken. Chicken breasts can become dry if overcooked, so be sure to check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before baking. Just follow the searing and baking steps when you're ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze spinach stuffed chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed chicken breasts. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Q: What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
A: You can add finely chopped mushrooms, artichokes, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and texture. Just sauté them before mixing them into the filling to remove excess moisture.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
A: Yes, frozen spinach works just as well! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the filling.

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Conclusion

This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is a fantastic way to elevate a simple chicken dinner into something special. With its creamy spinach and cheese filling, tender chicken breast, and crispy exterior, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a winner every time.

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