Creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Introduction

Spinach stuffed chicken breasts are a delicious and nutritious way to elevate a simple chicken dinner. Filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will impress your family and 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°F (190°C). Prepare the chicken breasts by slicing a pocket into each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped spinach, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
3. Step 3: Season both the outside and inside of the chicken breasts with half of the salt, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Step 4: Stuff each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture, then secure with toothpicks if necessary.
5. Step 5: Heat olive or avocado oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Step 7: Remove toothpicks, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or fresh basil to the stuffing mixture.
• Use fresh mozzarella instead of cream cheese for a different cheesy texture.
• If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use thawed, well-drained frozen spinach.
• Secure the stuffed chicken with kitchen twine if toothpicks are not available.

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 in a low oven to keep the chicken moist. Avoid overcooking during reheating to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts and keep them refrigerated for several hours before cooking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and bake when ready.

What can I serve with spinach stuffed chicken breasts?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 130 reviews

Delicious and juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach mixture, seasoned with paprika and garlic for a flavorful and healthy meal that’s perfect for dinner.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 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 and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket through the side of each breast, ensuring not to slice all the way through.
2. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped spinach, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
3. Stuff the Chicken: Evenly divide the spinach mixture between the four chicken breasts, stuffing each pocket generously. Use toothpicks if necessary to secure the openings.
4. Season the Chicken: Brush the olive or avocado oil over the exterior of the stuffed chicken breasts. Sprinkle evenly with the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt.
5. Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and serving to retain juices and enhance flavor.

Notes

• You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.
• If you prefer a milder spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
• Make sure your cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier and filling smoother.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without overcooking.

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