Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients
- 3 large chicken breasts)
boneless, skinless (1 3/4 to 2 lbs, even-sized pieces
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz cream cheese
cold
- 1 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 garlic cloves
pressed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups baby spinach leaves
chopped
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 425˚F with a rack in the center. In a mixing bowl, mash together cream cheese, mayo and garlic with a fork then stir in mozzarella, parmesan and chopped spinach leaves until combined.
- 2
Lay chicken on a flat surface and cut slit 3/4 of the way through without cutting all the way through. Stuff each chicken breast with 1/3 of the mixture and seal horizontally with a toothpick (make sure the chicken breast can lay flat on the sides for searing.
- 3
Season the outside of the chicken breast all over with 3/4 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder and 1/2 tsp paprika, or season to taste.
- 4
Heat 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil in an oven-proof pan such as cast iron, or large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sauté for 4 minutes per side until golden brown on each side.
- 5
Flip a second time and immediately transfer skillet to preheated oven. Bake at 425˚F for 10-15 minutes until thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken registers at 165˚F. Rest chicken 5 minutes before slicing. Spoon pan juices over chicken to serve.
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
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About this Recipe
Craving a dinner that feels elegant yet comes together with ease? These Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts are your answer, delivering incredible flavor and a satisfying meal without a fuss.
What makes this stuffed chicken truly shine is the technique of searing it on the stove first for a beautiful golden crust, then finishing it in the oven. This ensures each chicken breast remains incredibly juicy and tender, never dry, perfectly complementing the creamy spinach and cheese filling.
Prepare for a delightful culinary experience with every bite. You'll slice into a golden-brown exterior to reveal a luscious, creamy filling of baby spinach, rich cream cheese, and a blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. The chicken itself will be perfectly cooked, tender, and moist, infused with subtle garlic, salt, and paprika notes from the seasoning. This dish manages to feel both comforting and sophisticated, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Feel free to customize the cheese blend in the filling; a sharp provolone or white cheddar could make a delightful swap for the mozzarella or parmesan if you prefer. You can also adjust the amount of pressed garlic in the stuffing to suit your taste, or add a pinch more paprika to the chicken seasoning for a warmer note.
This Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken is elegant enough for guests, yet simple enough for a satisfying weeknight meal. Serve it alongside roasted asparagus, a fluffy rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad to complete your meal.