Description
This Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy mixture of spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and garlic. The chicken is seasoned with a flavorful blend of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, seared to golden perfection, then baked to juicy, melty goodness. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious dinner that’s easy to prepare.
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)
Stuffing
- 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
- Pinch of pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through to create a cavity for the stuffing.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix together the chopped fresh spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the cheesy spinach mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if the filling seems likely to spill out during cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Rub olive oil over the outside of each stuffed chicken breast. Then season all 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. Add olive oil or butter and sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust, which seals in the juices.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken breasts into the preheated oven. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Remove toothpicks if used, then serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure not to cut all the way through the chicken breasts when making pockets to prevent filling from leaking.
- Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor in the stuffing.
- You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the stuffing mixture.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking ensures it stays juicy when sliced.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
