These Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken filled with creamy spinach and cheese makes for a satisfying meal that’s also healthy.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love that I can whip it up in no time and impress my family. Serve it with some rice or veggies, and dinner is ready!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach is preferred for its bright flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh, frozen chopped spinach works too. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess water before using!
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture. Neufchâtel cheese is a great lower-fat alternative. You can also use ricotta cheese for a lighter filling.
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella for that melty effect! If you’re out of mozzarella, try using cheddar or gouda. For Parmesan, any hard cheese can be a good substitute.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is key for easy stuffing. If you want something different, turkey cutlets can work well too.
How Do I Properly Stuff Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing the chicken breasts can be a little tricky. The key is to create a nice pocket without cutting all the way through. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a sharp, thin knife for precise cutting.
- Start at the thicker side of the breast and make a horizontal cut toward the opposite side, stopping before you reach the edge.
- Gently pry open the pocket and fill it with the spinach mixture. Don’t overstuff it; just enough to fill nicely!
- Secure with toothpicks to keep the filling in while baking.
Following these steps ensures that your chicken stays juicy and the filling doesn’t spill out 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 dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll need to bake it for 25-30 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot for baking the chicken.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, add the chopped fresh spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks creamy and delicious.
3. Make Pocket in Chicken Breasts:
Take each chicken breast and use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket into the side. Be gentle and don’t cut all the way through. This is where your cheesy spinach mixture will go!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Now, stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese filling you made earlier. Don’t overstuff! If needed, secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside.
5. Season the Chicken:
Drizzle olive oil over the outside of the chicken breasts, then season generously with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. This will add great flavor to the outside!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Remember, cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy. You can garnish the chicken with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for that extra touch.
And there you have it! Enjoy your delicious and easy spinach stuffed chicken breasts. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen spinach is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese replacement for the mozzarella and Parmesan. Always check labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
What Are The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Stuffed Chicken?
Stuffed chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes or rice to soak up any extra sauce.
