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Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts
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Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts combine tender chicken breasts with a creamy mixture of fresh spinach, mozzarella, and cream cheese. This quick, nutritious, and flavorful dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a balanced meal of lean protein, greens, and melted cheese that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or herbs (optional)

Filling

  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Sauté the fresh spinach and minced garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until the spinach wilts and releases its moisture. Remove from heat and let it cool briefly. Once cooled, combine the spinach and garlic mixture with softened cream cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese, mixing until creamy and well blended.
  2. Butterfly the Chicken Breasts: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, making sure not to cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the spinach and cheese filling securely during cooking.
  3. Stuff and Secure: Spoon generous amounts of the prepared spinach and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket. If necessary, use toothpicks to close the openings and keep the filling inside while cooking.
  4. Season and Brown: Season the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and optional Italian herbs. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. Bake to Finish: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese filling is melted and bubbly.

Notes

  • Take your time making even butterfly cuts to avoid tearing the chicken breasts.
  • Drain and squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to prevent a watery filling.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken without overcooking.
  • Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep juices locked in.
  • Use toothpicks to secure the openings and prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/spinach-and-cheese-stuffed-chicken-breasts/