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Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a quick, easy, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are filled with a creamy mixture of fresh spinach, cream cheese, and shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, then seared to a golden crust and cooked through for a satisfying, nutritious dish the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil, for searing (about 2 tablespoons)

Filling

  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Optional Herbs and Add-ins

  • Basil, oregano, or thyme (to taste)
  • Toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Sauté fresh spinach with minced garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat until just wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in softened cream cheese and shredded mozzarella until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket, pressing the filling firmly inside to keep it secure.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. Then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 6-8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken breasts from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the filling to set. Slice and serve with desired garnishes and side dishes.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overstuff the chicken to avoid difficulty sealing and cooking.
  • If needed, use toothpicks to secure the chicken pocket before cooking.
  • Sear on medium-high heat for a golden crust, then reduce heat to low to cook through without drying.
  • Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach stuffed chicken, cheese stuffed chicken breasts, quick chicken dinner, gluten free chicken recipe, weeknight chicken recipe