Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy and flavorful filling of spinach and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or special gathering, offering a delicious meal that is both satisfying and impressive.
Ingredients
● 3 large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts (totaling about 1 3/4 to 2 lbs)
● 1 tsp salt
● 1/2 tsp black pepper
● 1/2 tsp garlic powder
● 1/2 tsp paprika
● 4 oz cold block-style cream cheese
● 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
● 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
● 1 tbsp mayonnaise
● 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
● 2 cloves garlic, minced
● 1/2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, use a fork to mash together the cream cheese,
mayonnaise, minced garlic, and salt. Mash in the chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella,
and grated Parmesan until well combined.
- Prepare the Chicken: Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife
to cut a slit about 3/4 of the way into the chicken breast, creating a pocket.
- Stuff the Chicken: Fill each chicken breast with 1/3 of the spinach and cheese mixture,
then seal the edges with toothpicks to secure the filling.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with salt, black
pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. - Sear and Bake the Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the
olive oil and sauté the stuffed chicken breasts for about 4 minutes per side, or until they are
browned. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 425˚F (220˚C) and bake for about 10-15
minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken, or until a thermometer inserted into the
thickest part of the chicken registers 165˚F (74˚C).
6. Serve the Chicken: Serve the stuffed chicken breasts hot. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
· Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using it in the filling.
What side dishes go well with this stuffed chicken?
· This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
How can I store leftovers?
· Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
