Description
Spinach Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish that features chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even for a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (or cream cheese for a richer filling)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing the chicken)
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Make the Spinach Filling:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is fully thawed and drained before adding it to the pan.
- Remove from heat and let the spinach cool slightly, then stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine.
-
Stuff the Chicken:
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture, dividing it evenly between the chicken breasts.
- Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the chicken and keep the filling inside.
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Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through.
Notes
- You can add extra herbs like thyme or basil to the spinach mixture for more flavor.
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat ricotta or swap the mozzarella for a reduced-fat cheese.
- Make sure the spinach is well-drained if you use frozen spinach, so the filling doesn’t get too watery.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Spinach Stuffed Chicken, Stuffed Chicken Breast, Chicken with Spinach and Cheese, Healthy Stuffed Chicken, Keto Chicken Recipe