This Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is packed with yummy spinach and creamy cheese, making it juicy and flavorful. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love how fast it comes together—just stuff the chicken, bake, and enjoy. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe. They cook evenly and are easy to stuff. If you prefer, you can use thighs, which are juicier!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great, but you can use frozen spinach too. Just be sure to squeeze out the excess moisture before mixing it in!
Cream Cheese: This gives a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap it for Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan add great flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or ricotta for a twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic has a stronger taste. If you don’t have any, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use about 1/2 teaspoon.
How Do I Cut and Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Cutting chicken breasts to create pockets can be challenging! Here’s how to do it safely and neatly:
- Use a sharp knife—it makes a cleaner cut.
- Place the chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Hold it steady with one hand.
- Cut into the thickest part, creating a pocket, but don’t cut all the way through! Aim to leave at least an inch intact at the bottom.
- Stuff the chicken with the prepared filling using a spoon or your hands. Press gently to fit the filling in securely.
- If the pocket opens too much, secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Take your time with this step to ensure the filling stays inside and the chicken cooks evenly!
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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
Time Needed:
This yummy dish will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and another 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes total, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your chicken goes in, helping it cook perfectly!
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This creamy filling is the star of the dish!
3. Cut the Chicken:
Grab a sharp knife and carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Make sure to leave about an inch at the bottom to hold the filling inside. It’s easier than it sounds—just go slow and steady!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Take your delicious spinach mixture and stuff it into each chicken breast pocket. Use your fingers to gently press it inside, making sure to pack it in a bit. If the opening is a bit wide, don’t worry—you can secure it with toothpicks later if needed!
5. Season the Chicken:
Drizzle olive oil over the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs if you’re using them. This will give the chicken a nice flavor as it bakes!
6. Bake:
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has no pink inside. The juices should run clear when it’s done!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside. Optionally, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top before you dig in!
Enjoy your delicious, creamy, and tender spinach stuffed chicken breasts! 🥳
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will prevent the filling from becoming watery.
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Fully Cooked?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the chicken—there should be no pink and the juices should run clear.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to cover them securely. They may need an extra couple of minutes in the oven if they are cold when you bake.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it for a quick option. Enjoy!
