Welcome to your go-to recipe for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a family favorite: Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast with only 6 ingredients. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick meal or a home chef wanting to impress your guests, this flavorful chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple steps, you can create a hearty and healthy dinner that pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes.
Introduction
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with the nutritious punch of spinach, all tucked into juicy chicken breasts. Popular in Mediterranean-inspired cuisines, this dish is not only flavorful but also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. With a short prep time of 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, it’s the perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a gourmet meal.
This version features a minimal ingredient list while maintaining maximum flavor. With the added creaminess of mozzarella cheese and the aromatic essence of garlic, every bite bursts with satisfying taste. Whether you’re a fan of cheesesteaks or stuffed chicken recipes, this dish is sure to impress.
For a perfect weeknight dinner, pair this Spinach Stuffed Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Ingredients for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Here’s what you’ll need for this Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe:
- 4 8-oz Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 6 oz Fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 medium Roma tomato, thinly sliced into 8 slices
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, swap out the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or mashed avocado for creaminess.
- If you’re avoiding mozzarella, try a plant-based cheese or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- For a gluten-free dish, simply ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
How to Make Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with sea salt and black pepper. Then, cut a horizontal slit into each chicken breast, creating a pocket for the spinach mixture. Set aside.
Step 3: Wilt the spinach
Place the spinach into a large bowl and steam it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Alternatively, you can sauté it on the stove for 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, set the spinach aside to cool.
Step 4: Prepare the stuffing
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and minced garlic. Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella. Once the spinach is cool, squeeze out any excess water and mix it into the cream cheese mixture.
Step 5: Stuff the chicken
Using a spoon, stuff the spinach mixture evenly into each chicken breast. Use toothpicks to secure the filling inside the chicken breasts.
Step 6: Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 7: Bake the chicken
Top each chicken breast with two slices of tomato and a sprinkle of the remaining mozzarella cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Helpful Tips for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
- For maximum flavor, use fresh, high-quality spinach and mozzarella cheese. If possible, grate your own mozzarella for better meltability.
- When cutting the chicken, be careful not to slice all the way through. You want to create a pocket that can hold the stuffing without the filling leaking out.
- Make sure to squeeze out any excess water from the spinach before mixing it with the cream cheese to avoid a watery filling.
Cooking Tips for the Best Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: This will give your chicken a beautiful golden crust while allowing for even cooking.
- Thermometer Check: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your chicken. Insert it into the chicken (not the filling) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini.
- A light Caesar salad or Greek salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic mashed potatoes or wild rice for a more hearty, comforting side.
For beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements this dish beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin A: 200% DV
- Vitamin C: 25% DV
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Storage and Leftovers for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
To store leftovers, place the Spinach Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the oven will keep the chicken’s texture more intact.
For freezing, wrap each stuffed chicken breast individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them when ready.
2. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works as well. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing it with the cream cheese.
3. What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can use ricotta cheese, mascarpone, or even Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese.
4. How do I prevent the filling from spilling out?
Use toothpicks to securely close the chicken breasts and prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
Related Recipes for Spinach Lovers
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole: A hearty meal with cornbread that pairs perfectly with spinach dishes.
- Sausage Balls Recipe: An easy and tasty appetizer perfect for a party or gathering.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe as much as we do! It’s an incredibly versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. If you try this recipe, let us know in the comments below how it turned out, and feel free to share your own twists on the filling. Happy cooking!
Print
Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe | Easy & Healthy
Description
Welcome to your go-to recipe for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a family favorite: Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast with only 6 ingredients. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick meal or a home chef wanting to impress your guests, this flavorful chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple steps, you can create a hearty and healthy dinner that pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes.
Ingredients
- 4 8-oz Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 6 oz Fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 medium Roma tomato, thinly sliced into 8 slices
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, swap out the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or mashed avocado for creaminess.
- If you’re avoiding mozzarella, try a plant-based cheese or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- For a gluten-free dish, simply ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with sea salt and black pepper. Then, cut a horizontal slit into each chicken breast, creating a pocket for the spinach mixture. Set aside.
Step 3: Wilt the spinach
Place the spinach into a large bowl and steam it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Alternatively, you can sauté it on the stove for 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, set the spinach aside to cool.
Step 4: Prepare the stuffing
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and minced garlic. Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella. Once the spinach is cool, squeeze out any excess water and mix it into the cream cheese mixture.
Step 5: Stuff the chicken
Using a spoon, stuff the spinach mixture evenly into each chicken breast. Use toothpicks to secure the filling inside the chicken breasts.
Step 6: Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 7: Bake the chicken
Top each chicken breast with two slices of tomato and a sprinkle of the remaining mozzarella cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- For maximum flavor, use fresh, high-quality spinach and mozzarella cheese. If possible, grate your own mozzarella for better meltability.
- When cutting the chicken, be careful not to slice all the way through. You want to create a pocket that can hold the stuffing without the filling leaking out.
- Make sure to squeeze out any excess water from the spinach before mixing it with the cream cheese to avoid a watery filling.
