Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Name: Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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); 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

Isabella

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Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are packed with a creamy spinach and cheese filling, seasoned beautifully, and baked to perfection. This is an easy, one-pan recipe that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for any weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a one-pan meal, minimizing cleanup.

Packed with rich, cheesy flavor balanced by nutritious spinach.

Versatile enough for a special occasion or a quick dinner.

Customizable with your favorite add-ins like sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes.

The perfect combination of crispy golden chicken and creamy filling.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)

For the 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

Directions

Preheat and Prepare Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice a pocket into each chicken breast using a sharp knife, taking care not to cut all the way through.

Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Stuff the Chicken:
Spoon the cheesy spinach mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if necessary.

Season the Chicken:
Rub olive oil over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Sear the Chicken:
Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

Bake:
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve:
Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks if used, and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or chopped mushrooms into the filling for extra flavor.

Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a kick.

Herbed: Stir fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley into the filling.

Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or a simple side salad.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness.

Freezing: You can freeze stuffed chicken before cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Related Recipes:

Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese

FAQs

How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

I make sure not to overcook the chicken and use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. Resting the chicken for 5 minutes before serving also helps retain juices.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but I like to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before mixing it into the filling to avoid a watery texture.

What sides pair well with this dish?

I usually serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is great too.

Can I grill the stuffed chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, I sear the chicken on the grill over medium heat, then finish it off in an oven-safe skillet on indirect heat or in the oven.

What cheese alternatives can I use?

If mozzarella isn’t available, I substitute it with provolone, gouda, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts bring together tender chicken, creamy filling, and simple preparation for a meal that’s both impressive and approachable. It’s a go-to dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser, whether for a family dinner or entertaining guests. Try it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

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