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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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
