This easy spinach stuffed chicken breast is a tasty way to enjoy a healthy dinner. Juicy chicken is filled with creamy spinach and cheese, making each bite burst with flavor!
I love how quickly these come together. Perfect for a weeknight meal! Just stuff, bake, and enjoy—it’s like a little surprise in each chicken breast. Yum! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here for that tender texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use chicken thighs for added flavor, just adjust the cooking time a bit since they’re thicker.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lively flavor. If you can only find frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing it in.
Cream Cheese: This is vital for creating a creamy filling. If you’re watching calories, a low-fat cream cheese works fine. For a dairy-free version, use cashew cream instead for a similar texture.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan bring that cheesy goodness. Instead, you might try goat cheese for a tangy flavor or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Properly Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken breasts can be tricky without tearing them up. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- First, choose a sharp knife and make a clean pocket in the thickest part of the breast, but don’t cut all the way through.
- Use a spoon to fill the pocket with the stuffing; this prevents overstuffing, which can cause it to burst.
- Secure the pocket with toothpicks if necessary, or simply press the edges to seal it.
- Don’t forget to season the outside for delicious flavor!
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 seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of cooking time, making it ready to enjoy in under an hour. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your chicken.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped fresh spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic. Stir well until everything is nicely combined and creamy. This will be the tasty filling for the chicken!
3. Create the Chicken Pockets:
Take each chicken breast and, using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thickest part. Make sure not to cut all the way through to the other side.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Don’t overstuff—just enough to fill them nicely. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the opening so the cheese doesn’t leak out while cooking.
5. Season the Chicken:
Brush each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Slide it into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through, and juices run clear (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once baking is complete, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside, making it tender when you cut into it.
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve the warm stuffed chicken breasts with your favorite side dish—think salad, rice, or steamed veggies. Enjoy your tasty and healthy meal!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you have frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the filling. This will prevent the stuffing from becoming too watery.
How Can I Tell When the Chicken Is Done Cooking?
The best way to check if your chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, look for clear juices when you cut into the chicken.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the stuffed chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, just bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Should I Serve With Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta to complement the creamy filling.
