Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, seasoned with garlic and paprika, then seared and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Filling
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a spice blend for seasoning the chicken.
- Create chicken pockets: Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast carefully without cutting all the way through, creating space for the filling.
- Make the filling: In another bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic, mixing until well blended.
- Stuff the chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Secure the opening using toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Season the chicken: Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with the prepared spice blend evenly to enhance flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown color.
- Bake to finish: Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken to the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Serve: Carefully remove toothpicks or kitchen twine before serving. Enjoy your stuffed chicken breast with your choice of side dishes.
Notes
- Frozen spinach can be used instead of fresh; thaw and squeeze dry before mixing.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or chopped artichokes to the filling for additional flavor and texture.
- Serve alongside rice, potatoes, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.