Easy Spinach-Stuffed Chicken That Tastes Like a Fancy Dinner
There’s chicken, and then there’s stuffed chicken. And let me tell you, once you try this spinach-stuffed chicken, plain chicken breast will never hit the same again.
We’re talking juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken packed with a creamy spinach filling that tastes like something straight out of a fancy restaurant.
And it’s ridiculously easy to make. No complicated steps, no weird ingredients, just a foolproof, flavor-packed recipe that’ll make you feel like a pro in the kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or trying to impress someone (yourself included), this stuffed chicken is the move. Here we go:
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the filling:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 oz fresh spinach
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 oz Ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, cream cheese, Ricotta, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season both the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each pocket with 2-3 tablespoons of the spinach filling. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional)
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the skillet (or place the chicken on a baking sheet) to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Add the Topping
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle Parmesan over the chicken.
- Bake until the cheese is melted and golden.
How to Serve
This spinach-stuffed chicken is a showstopper all on its own, but let’s be real—you need a side dish (or two) to turn it into a full, satisfying meal. Whether you’re going for cozy comfort food or a light and fresh vibe, here are some foolproof ways to serve it.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Buttery, creamy, and the perfect base to soak up all those juicy chicken flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables – Think crispy Brussels sprouts, caramelized carrots, or roasted asparagus for a balanced plate.
- Buttery Parmesan Orzo – Tiny pasta that’s easy to make but gives off serious I-have-my-life-together energy.
- Lemon Herb Quinoa – A bright, protein-packed grain that adds freshness without overpowering the dish.
- Crisp Garden Salad – Toss together arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
- Sautéed Garlic Green Beans – Simple but delicious, and they add a nice crunch alongside the tender chicken.
Notes
- You can customize the filling by adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or different herbs.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- This dish goes well with a side of pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.
- Make sure to remove toothpicks before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
I prefer fresh spinach, but technically, you can use frozen spinach in this recipe. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before incorporating it into the filling to prevent a soggy dish.
How can I tell if the chicken is done without a meat thermometer?
Cut into the thickest part of the chicken; if the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink, it’s likely done.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the chicken.
What can I substitute for Ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or goat cheese can be good substitutes for Ricotta cheese in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it?
While it’s best fresh, you can refrigerate leftovers and reheat them in the oven to maintain the texture.
How can I prevent the chicken from drying out during baking?
To prevent dryness, you can cover the chicken with foil during the baking process and uncover it for the last few minutes to brown the cheese topping.
Spinach Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the filling:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 oz fresh spinach
- 2 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 oz Ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup 60g grated Parmesan
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, cream cheese, Ricotta, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season both the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each pocket with 2-3 tablespoons of the spinach filling. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional)
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
- Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the skillet (or place the chicken on a baking sheet) to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Add the Topping
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle Parmesan over the chicken.
- Bake until the cheese is melted and golden.
Video
Theresa Bedford is a minimal-ish advocate, storyteller, and wellness enthusiast who believes that simplicity is the key to wellness and a more intentional, fulfilling life. After realizing she was spending too much time searching for things—both physically and mentally—she embraced minimalism, not as a rigid rule, but as a way to create space for what truly matters.
