Description
Delicious and creamy Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts baked to perfection with a golden sear and a flavorful blend of cheeses and fresh spinach, creating a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
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 the oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each boneless chicken breast without cutting all the way through to create space for the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped fresh spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the cheesy spinach mixture evenly into the pocket of each chicken breast. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the exterior of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. Then sprinkle evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful crust.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add olive oil or butter. Sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown color, which locks in flavor and juices.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken breasts for 18 to 22 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring they are thoroughly cooked and safe to eat.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Remove any toothpicks before serving. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure not to cut all the way through the chicken breasts to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Feel free to substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach; if using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing.
- For extra flavor, you can add herbs like basil or oregano to the filling mixture.
- The toothpicks used to secure the chicken should be removed before serving to avoid any accidents.
