Stuffed Chicken Breast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed chicken breast recipe is simple yet flavorful. The chicken is tender and juicy, filled with a creamy and savory filling that melts in your mouth. With a crispy, seasoned exterior and a rich filling, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups cooked spinach, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or feta)
• 1 tbsp fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, spinach, garlic, shredded cheese, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Stuff the Chicken: Spoon 1/3 cup of the filling into the center of each pounded chicken breast. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly, securing with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
5. Season: Brush the chicken with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake: Place the stuffed chicken breasts seam-side down in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before removing the toothpicks or twine. Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms and fill with your favorite vegetable filling.
• Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese, brie, or a combination of cheeses for different flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual stuffed chicken breasts wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the filling.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for pork or beef, and even fish, by adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, you can leave out the cheese if you prefer a lighter filling or if you’re dairy-free.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

Stuffed chicken breasts are a delicious and versatile dish that combines tender chicken with rich, flavorful fillings. This recipe offers endless possibilities for customization, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a special celebration, stuffed chicken breasts are sure to impress!