Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A delicious and creamy Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe that combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and fresh spinach. Perfectly seasoned and oven-baked after searing for a golden crust, this dish offers a hearty, cheesy main course ideal for dinner any night of the week.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Filling

  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy, then set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and place on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket about 3-4 inches long into the thickest part of each breast without cutting through. Pound breasts slightly if very thick to ensure even cooking.
  3. Season the Chicken: Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Rub olive oil all over each chicken breast, then season generously on both sides, including inside the pocket.
  4. Stuff the Chicken: Divide the cheese and spinach mixture evenly and stuff each chicken breast pocket. Secure openings with toothpicks, being careful not to overstuff to avoid leakage during cooking.
  5. Cook the Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks. Slice diagonally to reveal filling and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh spinach for best texture and flavor. If using frozen spinach, thaw completely and squeeze out excess water.
  • You can prepare the filling and stuff the chicken up to a day ahead, refrigerate until ready to cook.
  • For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs like basil or oregano, or red pepper flakes to the filling.
  • Try mixing different cheeses such as goat cheese or fontina for variety.
  • Don’t skip searing the chicken to develop a golden crust and help seal the filling.
  • Use an oven-safe skillet for easy transfer from stovetop to oven.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken, Stuffed Chicken Breasts, Cream Cheese Chicken, Baked Chicken Breast Recipes, Spinach Stuffing