Description
This Irresistible Spinach Stuffed Chicken recipe is perfect for cozy dinner nights. Juicy boneless chicken breasts are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of fresh spinach, creamy cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, then seared to golden perfection. The combination of creamy filling and tender chicken creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh spinach, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Prepare the chicken breasts: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without slicing all the way through. Season the chicken breasts inside and out with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the chicken: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket, ensuring the filling is well distributed.
- Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Cook through: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the filling is hot and melty.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices and makes for a more tender bite.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning into the filling mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely.
- The recipe can be doubled for larger groups.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- If cream cheese is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before mixing.
