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
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- 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.