Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Introduction

Spinach stuffed chicken breasts are a delicious and elegant meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Tender chicken is filled with a creamy mixture of spinach, cheese, and spices, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests.

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 your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle them with the olive or avocado 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: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. Set the chicken aside.
5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined.
6. Step 6: Spoon the spinach cheese mixture evenly into the pockets of each chicken breast.
7. Step 7: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or substitute mozzarella for Parmesan.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to blend the filling smoothly and easily.
• Use fresh spinach for a brighter taste, but frozen spinach (thawed and drained) works in a pinch.

Storage

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

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the spinach filling in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Fill the chicken breasts just before baking to keep everything fresh.

Can I freeze stuffed chicken breasts?

Absolutely. Wrap the stuffed chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

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4.5 from 108 reviews

Delicious and creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts baked to perfection with a flavorful blend of cream cheese, Parmesan, and spices. This easy-to-make recipe provides a healthy and satisfying meal ideal for dinner or meal prep.

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

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

Stuffing

• 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. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the chicken.
2. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle them with olive or avocado oil to help the seasoning stick and add moisture.
3. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine paprika, half of the salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Create pockets in chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. Set the chicken aside for stuffing.
5. Make the stuffing: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped fresh spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
6. Stuff the chicken: Spoon the spinach cream cheese mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket, filling them generously but carefully to avoid tearing.
7. Bake the chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a 9×13 baking dish, ensuring they are spaced evenly. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.

Notes

• Ensure chicken breasts are of similar size for even cooking.
• You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen; just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
• Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
• Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juices.

Keywords: Spinach stuffed chicken, baked chicken breasts, creamy chicken recipe, healthy chicken dinner, stuffed chicken