This Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a tasty meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Juicy chicken is filled with creamy spinach and cheese for a delicious bite!
You’ll be surprised at how quick it is to make! I love pairing it with rice or a salad for a complete dinner. Just remember to watch out for cheesy goo sneaking out—so good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for stuffing, but you can substitute with thighs if you prefer a juicier option.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice texture, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen spinach works too! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds creaminess. You could swap it for ricotta or cottage cheese for a lighter filling.
Cheeses: I used mozzarella and Parmesan for great flavor. Feel free to try goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.
Seasonings: Dried Italian seasoning is easy and convenient. If you don’t have it, mix your favorite herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Stuffed Right?
Stuffing chicken breasts can be tricky, but don’t worry! Here’s how to do it well:
- Make a clean pocket by cutting horizontally into the thickest part of the chicken. Avoid cutting all the way through!
- Be generous with the filling! The more, the better for cheesy goodness.
- If using toothpicks, insert them carefully to hold the filling in. Remember to remove them after baking.
This way, your cheesy spinach is safe and sound inside the chicken during cooking!
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks (optional, for securing the chicken)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 25-30 minutes to bake. So overall, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s ready for the chicken once you’re done prepping.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and minced garlic. Stir everything well until combined and creamy. This will be the tasty filling!
3. Cut the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and carefully cut a pocket into the thickest part of the breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. This pocket is where your delicious filling will go!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Now, take the spinach and cheese mixture you prepared earlier and stuff it into the pocket of each chicken breast. Don’t be shy—fill them generously! If needed, use toothpicks to secure the opening so the filling stays inside while cooking.
5. Season the Chicken:
Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. Then, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning to add great flavor.
6. Bake:
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and put them in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. You can check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices. Remove any toothpicks if you used them. Then, serve your warm and cheesy stuffed chicken alongside your favorite side dish like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the cheeses. This prevents the filling from becoming watery.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
If cream cheese isn’t an option, you can substitute it with ricotta for a lighter filling or cottage cheese for a similar texture. Just be sure to mix it well with the other cheeses for a creamy consistency!
How Can I Store Leftover Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring they remain juicy!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance. Just stuff them and store them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, pop them in the oven for baking—this will save time on busy nights!
