This easy spinach stuffed chicken breasts recipe is a tasty dish that’s full of flavor! Juicy chicken is filled with creamy spinach and cheese, making it a perfect dinner choice.
Trust me, the moment you cut into it, the cheesy goodness will ooze out. I love serving it with some rice or a fresh salad. It definitely makes for a happy plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best for easy stuffing. If you prefer dark meat, thighs can be a great substitute, as they stay juicy and tender.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is wonderful, but you can use frozen spinach, too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cream Cheese: If you need a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead. They’ll give you a similar creamy texture with fewer calories!
Cheeses: I love mozzarella for meltiness and Parmesan for flavor. If you’re out of either, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or feta for a different taste.
Seasoning: Italian seasoning adds a nice touch, but you can replace it with herbs like basil or thyme for a unique spin.
How Do You Get the Chicken Breasts to Cook Evenly?
Getting your chicken perfectly cooked can be a worry! Here’s a reliable method:
- Start with chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking.
- If they’re thick, you can gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1-inch. This helps them cook uniformly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. You’re looking for 165°F (74°C).
- Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices in!
These tips will help you achieve juicy, flavorful stuffed chicken every time! Enjoy your meal! 😊
Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot when you’re ready to bake the chicken.
2. Cook the Spinach:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it smells amazing. Then, add your chopped spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s wilted—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool a bit.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Mix everything well until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
With a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket with the delicious spinach filling, and you can use toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside if needed.
5. Bake:
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the chicken is done, carefully remove any toothpicks and serve warm. You can garnish with some extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if you like. Pair it with rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal!
Enjoy your delicious and easy spinach stuffed chicken breasts!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent a soggy filling.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for cream cheese. They’ll still provide creaminess while adding extra protein!
How Do I Know When the Chicken Is Done Cooking?
The best way to check if your chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s cooked thoroughly and safe to eat.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and stuff it a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
