Description
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, and flavorful seasonings. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking during baking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season each chicken breast generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Carefully slice a pocket into each breast, making sure not to cut all the way through the meat.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped fresh spinach, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the spinach mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if necessary to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Bake: Place the stuffed chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
- Rest & Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps juices redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender chicken. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning to help the spices adhere better.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is safely cooked through without drying out.
- To prevent the filling from leaking, avoid overstuffing the chicken breasts and secure the pocket with toothpicks.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
