A few years ago, I wanted to make something special for dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. I had chicken breasts, spinach, and some cheese in the fridge, and the idea to stuff them just came to me. It sounded fancy, but it was surprisingly easy to put together.
The first time I made this stuffed spinach and cheese chicken breast, it was a hit with my family. It’s tender, juicy, and filled with creamy, cheesy goodness. Now, it’s one of those recipes I go back to when I want something comforting but still feel like I’ve made an effort.
Servings | Total |
4 | 40mins |
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
This recipe wasn’t something I learned from a specific source. It came about when I was experimenting in the kitchen, trying to use up leftover ingredients. Over time, I fine-tuned it by adjusting the flavors and the amount of filling, and now it’s one of my favorite recipes to share with friends and family.
Why Stuffed Spinach and Cheese Chicken Breast
Stuffed chicken breasts are a great way to make a simple dinner feel special. The spinach and cheese filling adds flavor and creaminess, turning plain chicken into something much more exciting. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily pair it with different sides for a complete meal.
What Is Stuffed Spinach and Cheese Chicken Breast Made Of?
This dish uses simple, fresh ingredients:
- Chicken breasts
- Spinach (fresh or frozen)
- Cream cheese
- Shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra flavor
What to Have With Stuffed Spinach and Cheese Chicken Breast
Here are some great sides to pair with this dish:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes complement the rich filling.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables: Asparagus, green beans, or carrots are great choices.
- Rice or quinoa: A light grain balances the richness of the chicken.
- Salad: A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.
Is Stuffed Spinach and Cheese Chicken Breast Healthy?
It can be a healthy option, especially if you use lean chicken breasts and control the amount of cheese. Adding spinach boosts the nutritional value, providing vitamins and fiber. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and mozzarella.
Kitchen Equipment
You’ll need:
- A sharp knife
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
- Skillet or baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Oven
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or ½ cup frozen, thawed, and drained)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, spinach, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each pocket. Secure the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks or twine.
Tips
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little Parmesan on top of the chicken before baking.
- Make sure the filling is well-drained if using frozen spinach to avoid soggy chicken.
- Don’t overfill the chicken—it’s okay if a little filling leaks out during cooking.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Thighs are smaller, so they’ll cook faster.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Stuff the chicken in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the chicken juicy.
Conclusion
Stuffed spinach and cheese chicken breast is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for dinner. With its creamy filling and juicy chicken, it’s always a hit at the table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy!
MORE RECIPES
Stuffed Spinach and Cheese Chicken Breast Recipe
Equipment
- A sharp knife
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
- Skillet or baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or ½ cup frozen, thawed, and drained)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, spinach, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each pocket. Secure the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks or twine.