Spinach Stuffed Chicken Recipe
If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s as impressive as it is comforting, look no further than Spinach Stuffed Chicken. Imagine juicy chicken breasts filled to the brim with a cheesy, garlicky spinach mixture, golden on the outside and deliciously creamy within. This is one of those dishes that’s surprisingly easy to assemble but feels like a special treat every single time. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, Spinach Stuffed Chicken is guaranteed to earn rave reviews around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s magic in simplicity, and Spinach Stuffed Chicken proves it with a line-up of everyday ingredients that pack serious flavor and color. Each element has a job: from tender chicken to creamy cheeses, every bite boasts a perfect balance of taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and exactly why each one matters:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless so you get a blank canvas for stuffing and perfectly juicy results.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps you achieve that golden, crave-worthy sear on the outside.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses the chicken with subtle, savory flavor from the inside out.
- Paprika: Lends gentle smokiness and boosts the golden color of the chicken crust.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together and ensures every bite sings.
- Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
- Fresh Spinach: Offers bright color, gentle earthiness, and that satisfying green veggie bite. (Frozen works in a pinch!)
- Cream Cheese: Melts into the spinach for a luscious, creamy filling.
- Shredded Mozzarella: Ensures a gooey, stretchy cheese factor that everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan: Delivers salty umami flavor and a touch of nuttiness.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic takes that aromatic pop to a whole new level.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds just a kiss of heat, perfect if you want to liven things up.
How to Make Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Your Oven and Seasoning Mix
Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, whisk together the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This little mix is the secret to a beautifully seasoned, mouthwatering exterior on your chicken breasts.
Step 2: Mix up the Spinach Filling
In a separate bowl, stir together the chopped fresh spinach, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. The goal: a creamy, cheesy spinach filling that holds together but is easy to spoon. (If you’re using frozen spinach, just make sure it’s well thawed and squeezed dry.)
Step 3: Butterfly and Stuff the Chicken
Take a sharp knife and carefully cut a deep pocket into the thickest side of each chicken breast. Try not to slice all the way through—you want a nice little envelope for your filling. Spoon the spinach mixture generously inside each pocket, distributing evenly. Secure the edge with toothpicks if you like peace of mind (or if your filling is particularly ambitious!).
Step 4: Season and Sear to Perfection
Drizzle olive oil over the outside of each stuffed chicken breast and gently rub it in. Sprinkle your seasoning mix on both sides, massaging it in for maximum flavor. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high and sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. This step gives you that gorgeous golden crust that seals in all the juiciness.
Step 5: Bake and Rest
Move the skillet straight into your preheated oven (or transfer the chicken to a baking dish if needed). Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Give the chicken a 5-minute rest before serving—this helps the filling settle and keeps every bite moist and flavorful.
How to Serve Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Garnishes
A finishing touch can make all the difference here! Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, a little extra grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of good olive oil over the top. The vibrant green and sparkling cheese look so inviting, and those tiny bursts of fresh flavor take your Spinach Stuffed Chicken over the top.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try garlicky roasted potatoes, buttery rice pilaf, or fluffy quinoa to soak up the cheesy goodness. If you’re after something lighter, a crisp green salad or simple steamed veggies complement the richness of the stuffed chicken without overpowering it. Pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs is also a lovely, Italian-inspired touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Spinach Stuffed Chicken is a true showstopper! Slice each breast diagonally before plating to show off that beautiful swirl of green and cheese inside. Arrange on a platter with lemon wedges or nestle atop a bed of your favorite greens for a restaurant-worthy presentation. If you’re feeding a crowd, offer toothpicks or mini flags for easy party bites!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Place any remaining Spinach Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The filling stays creamy, and the flavors deepen deliciously as they sit overnight.
Freezing
Want to get ahead? You can freeze uncooked, stuffed chicken breasts: just assemble, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking as usual. Cooked leftovers can also be frozen, though the texture of the filling may change slightly—still tasty for a make-ahead meal!
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover Spinach Stuffed Chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. For a quick fix, microwave in 30-second bursts, covering the chicken to keep it moist. Add a drop of water or broth if it needs a little extra juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for the filling?
Absolutely! Thaw the spinach completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing it with the cheese. This prevents the filling from getting watery.
What’s the best way to keep the filling from spilling out?
Don’t overstuff the pockets, and use toothpicks to secure the edges if you’re worried about runaway cheese. A snug fit in your pan helps, too.
Can I make Spinach Stuffed Chicken ahead for entertaining?
Yes! Assemble the chicken with filling, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it perfect for prepping before guests arrive.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No worries! Sear the stuffed chicken in any skillet, then transfer them to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven. You’ll still get that beautiful golden crust plus a perfectly baked center.
How do I know the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part—when it reads 165°F (74°C), you’re good to go. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking helps keep it juicy and flavorful, too.
Final Thoughts
Spinach Stuffed Chicken is the kind of meal that turns any night into something special, without hours at the stove. It’s easy, impressive, and just plain delicious. If you haven’t tried making it at home before, now’s the time—trust me, your kitchen will smell incredible, and everyone around your table will be asking for seconds!
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Spinach Stuffed Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Spinach Stuffed Chicken recipe that’s perfect for a satisfying meal. Tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, seasoned to perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Prepare the filling: Combine spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Stuff the chicken: Cut a pocket in each chicken breast, fill with the mixture, and secure with toothpicks.
- Season and cook: Rub chicken with olive oil and seasoning, then sear in a skillet. Bake in the oven until cooked through.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest before serving.
Notes
- You can use frozen spinach—just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.
- Serve with rice, pasta, or a simple salad.
- Toothpicks help hold the filling in place during cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
