Description
These Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a deliciously creamy and flavorful main dish perfect for a family dinner. Tender chicken breasts are filled with a savory mixture of fresh spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, then seared to golden perfection before baking to juicy, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until the filling is smooth and well blended.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the cheesy spinach mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary to keep the filling inside.
- Season the Chicken: Rub olive oil evenly over each stuffed chicken breast. Then season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a flavorful crust.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add olive oil or butter. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and golden.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken breasts into the preheated oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Take out any toothpicks used to secure the filling. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure to not cut all the way through the chicken breasts to keep the filling inside.
- If you prefer, you can use butter instead of olive oil for searing.
- Internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) should be checked with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely.
- Resting the chicken after baking helps retain its juices and improves flavor.
- You can customize the filling by adding other cheeses or herbs like basil or oregano.
