Let me tell you, spinach stuffed chicken is one of those dishes that never fails to impress! It’s like giving your regular chicken breast a delicious makeover. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the flavors of the creamy spinach and the tender chicken were a total hit! Not only is it mouthwatering, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Spinach brings a wealth of vitamins and minerals, while the cheeses add a satisfying creaminess. Plus, it’s a low-fat option, so you can indulge without the guilt. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that’s as healthy as it is tasty, this is it. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your weeknight dinner rotation!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Prepare Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into making this delicious spinach stuffed chicken! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial because it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly!
While that’s heating up, grab a mixing bowl and throw in your chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Now, mix it all together until it’s well combined. The colors are so vibrant, and the smell is already divine!
Next, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and give each one a little pocket. To do this, carefully slice into the side of each breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want to create a nice little pouch to hold that scrumptious spinach mixture!
Now, it’s time to stuff those chicken breasts! Fill each pocket generously with the spinach and cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! Once they’re filled, you can secure the openings with toothpicks if you’d like to keep everything snug inside.
Heat up the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, it’s go-time! Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown. This step adds so much flavor, plus it makes them look irresistibly appetizing!
Once they’re seared, carefully transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. It’s always good to check with a meat thermometer if you have one!
After that, let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and tender. And there you have it—your spinach stuffed chicken is ready to shine on your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously creamy filling with vibrant spinach and rich cheeses
- Healthy option packed with protein and nutrients
- Easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
- Gorgeous presentation that impresses family and friends
- Versatile enough to pair with any side dish
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your spinach stuffed chicken turns out absolutely perfect!
- Don’t skip the searing: This step adds a lovely golden color and deep flavor to your chicken. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). It takes the guesswork out and guarantees juicy results!
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to toss in some red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to the spinach mixture for an extra kick! It adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Let it rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.
- Use fresh spinach: While you can use frozen spinach, fresh really elevates the dish! Just make sure to wash and chop it well.
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this spinach stuffed chicken recipe! Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Cheese Swap: Try using feta cheese instead of cream cheese for a tangy kick, or go with cheddar for a sharper flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or dill to the spinach mixture for a burst of fresh flavor!
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and savory surprise that pairs beautifully with the spinach.
- Different Greens: Switch it up by using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different texture and taste.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling if you like a little heat!
These variations can completely transform the dish while keeping it delicious and satisfying. So, feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for one serving of spinach stuffed chicken. Each chicken breast contains about 350 calories, 20g of fat, 30g of protein, and 6g of carbohydrates. Plus, it has 2g of sugar and 600mg of sodium. These values are estimates, of course, and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But don’t worry, you’re still getting a nutritious and satisfying meal with every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes, you absolutely can! Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before mixing it with the cheese. This keeps your filling from getting too watery.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part, and check that the juices run clear.
Can I prepare the spinach stuffed chicken ahead of time?
Definitely! You can stuff the chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just remember to sear them right before baking for that lovely golden crust.
What sides go well with spinach stuffed chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some fluffy rice. It’s versatile, so feel free to get creative!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! Just wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Spinach Stuffed Chicken: 5 Reasons to Love This Healthy Dish
- Temps Total: 45 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Gras
Description
Spinach stuffed chicken is a delicious and healthy dish featuring chicken breasts filled with a flavorful spinach and cheese mixture.
Ingrédients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and fill with the spinach mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use frozen spinach, just make sure to drain it well.
- Feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or salad.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 20g
- Graisses Saturées: 10g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 6g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 90mg
Mots-clés: spinach stuffed chicken
