Spinach Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach and cheese filling, then baked to perfection for a flavorful, protein-packed meal.
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.