– **Title**: Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or thyme)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined to form the stuffing.
3. Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast: place your hand flat on top of the chicken breast and use a sharp knife to slice horizontally into the thickest part of the breast, making sure not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese and spinach mixture, using your fingers to gently push the filling inside. If needed, secure the openings with toothpicks.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Once browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Remove any toothpicks before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your creamy, cheesy spinach stuffed chicken breast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture to the filling. If you’re looking for lower fat options, try Neufchâtel cheese. Greek yogurt can work too, but the flavor will be different.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a vibrant color and taste. If using frozen, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture. I love using a mix of both for added texture!
Cheeses: Mozzarella adds stretchiness, while Parmesan gives a savory kick. If you want a stronger cheese flavor, opt for feta. For dairy-free options, use cashew cheese or any dairy-free cream cheese.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts help the filling shine. Thighs could be juicier, but they require longer cooking. For a twist, use turkey cutlets!
Spices: Paprika adds color and a slight smokiness. Consider smoked paprika for a bolder flavor. Garlic powder can stand in for fresh garlic if you’re in a pinch.
How Do You Safely Create a Pocket in Chicken Breasts?
Creating a pocket in the chicken breast can feel tricky but it’s essential for stuffing. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Use a sharp knife and lay the chicken flat on a cutting board.
- Slice horizontally into the thickest part of the breast, stopping just before you cut all the way through.
- Gently open the flap with your hand to create a pocket for stuffing. If the pocket is too small, carefully cut a bit more.
Take your time with this step; a good pocket ensures delicious filling in every bite!
How to Make Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 30 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 45 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the chicken.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy filling is going to make your chicken extra delicious!
3. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Next, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally. Be gentle and don’t cut all the way through!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Take the cream cheese spinach mixture and stuff it into each chicken breast pocket. If the filling looks like it’s going to spill out, you can use toothpicks to secure the opening. This will help everything stay in place while cooking.
5. Season the Chicken:
Drizzle the olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and rub it all over them. Then, sprinkle each breast with paprika for extra flavor and a beautiful color.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup! Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Yum!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside! You can serve it warm as is, or garnish with additional spinach or cheese if you like. Enjoy your delicious Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you choose to use frozen spinach, make sure it’s completely thawed and well-drained before mixing it with the cream cheese. Excess moisture can make the filling watery, so squeezing out any liquid with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels is a good idea.
What If I Don’t Have Toothpicks?
No problem! If you don’t have toothpicks, you can simply tie the stuffed chicken breasts with kitchen twine to keep the filling secure. Alternatively, you can just place them seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent the stuffing from leaking out while baking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, cooked bacon, or different herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor. Just be mindful of the volume so it can still fit into the chicken breasts neatly.
