Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Introduction

This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a flavorful and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Tender chicken breasts are filled with a creamy spinach mixture, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion dish.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 ½ cups chopped fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle with oil.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, combine paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Step 4: Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Set them aside.
5. Step 5: In another small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt until well combined.
6. Step 6: Spoon the spinach mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket.
7. Step 7: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the spinach mixture.
• Try substituting mozzarella for Parmesan for a milder, gooey filling.
• To keep the chicken moist, let it rest for 5 minutes after baking before slicing.

Storage

Store leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to avoid drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it with the cream cheese filling to prevent the mixture from becoming watery.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Spinach stuffed chicken breasts can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, then reheated when ready to eat. They also freeze well if you want to make a batch ahead.

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 138 reviews

Delicious and creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts bake to juicy perfection with a flavorful blend of cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, and fresh spinach. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or special occasion, delivering a tender and cheesy stuffed chicken that everyone will love.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasoning

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

Spinach Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 ½ cups chopped fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the chicken.
2. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle them evenly with the olive or avocado oil for moisture and flavor.
3. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of each chicken breast to add a smoky and savory flavor.
4. Create pockets in chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. Set the chicken aside once done.
5. Make the spinach filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped fresh spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Mix well until fully incorporated and creamy.
6. Stuff the chicken: Spoon the prepared spinach mixture evenly into the pockets of each chicken breast, filling them generously.
7. Bake the chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Notes

• For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some more Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
• If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
• Fresh spinach works best, but you can use frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices when slicing.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: spinach stuffed chicken, stuffed chicken breasts, creamy chicken recipe, baked chicken stuffed with spinach, easy chicken dinner