Elevate your dinner with this Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a creamy blend of spinach and cheeses, then baked to perfection. This dish offers a flavorful and sophisticated meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Prepare the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in the thickest part of each chicken breast. Be cautious not to cut all the way through.
Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket, packing it tightly. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks or twine. Serve and enjoy your delicious spinach and cheese stuffed chicken breasts!
Serving Tips:
Garnish: Enhance the presentation by garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon can add an extra touch of flavor.
Side Dishes: Serve your stuffed chicken breasts with complementary side dishes such as roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
Slicing: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure the filling stays intact and the juices are evenly distributed.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3-4 days to ensure optimal freshness and taste.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze cooked stuffed chicken breasts. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may cause the chicken to become dry.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the spinach before chopping and mixing it with the cheese. Excess moisture from frozen spinach can make the filling too watery.
Can I substitute the cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use different cheeses. For example, you could substitute cream cheese for the ricotta or use cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor and texture of the filling.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can use dairy-free alternatives such as vegan cream cheese and shredded vegan cheese. Ensure that the Italian seasoning and other ingredients you use are also free from dairy products.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time. Assemble the chicken with the filling, secure with toothpicks or twine, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to cook, follow the searing and baking instructions as usual.
Conclusion:
This Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Enjoy this delectable dish that combines the rich flavors of cheese with the nutritious goodness of spinach, all wrapped in tender, juicy chicken.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in a delectable dinner with Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy blend of fresh spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a satisfying and elegant meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a taste of gourmet comfort food right at home!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the filling by mixing chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Create a pocket in each chicken breast using a sharp knife, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture, packing it tightly. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, substitute dairy-free cheese alternatives and cream cheese.
If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
