Description
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a simple yet delicious main course featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy, cheesy spinach mixture. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts (approximately 2 lbs.)
Spinach Stuffing
- 4 oz. fresh baby spinach
- 4 oz. cream cheese
- 2 oz. feta cheese crumbles
- 2 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasoning
- 2 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. cumin powder
- 1 tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. chili powder
Other
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of cumin powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder. Mix well and set aside.
- Make the spinach stuffing: Roughly chop 4 oz. of fresh baby spinach and place it in a mixing bowl. Add 4 oz. cream cheese, 2 oz. feta cheese crumbles, and 2 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese. Using your hands, massage the ingredients together until it forms a thick, creamy paste.
- Create pockets in the chicken breasts: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff the chicken: Divide the prepared spinach mixture into four equal portions and spoon each into the pockets of the chicken breasts. Secure each pocket with toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside.
- Season and oil the chicken: Generously season both sides of each stuffed chicken breast with the prepared spice mix. Brush olive oil on both sides to help with browning and moisture retention.
- Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking tray and bake for 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts, until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.
Notes
- Seal the pockets with toothpicks to prevent cheese from oozing out; remember to remove them before serving. Tweezers or fishbone pliers can help with this task.
- Don’t cut the chicken breast completely through; just enough to form a pocket for stuffing.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as Cajun, Fajita, Berbere, or Montreal seasoning for unique flavor twists.
- Enhance the stuffing by adding sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Oven: 300ºF (150ºC) for 7 minutes with a little water, covered; Stovetop: low heat for 10 minutes, turning once; Air Fryer: 400ºF (200ºC) for 5 minutes on a parchment liner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American