Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken: A Delicious Delight
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy blend of spinach and cheese, then seared and baked to perfection. This protein-packed, low-carb dish is restaurant-worthy but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- * Skillet (oven-safe preferred)
- - Sharp knife
- - Mixing bowl
- * Toothpicks or kitchen twine
- - Oven
Ingredients
- * 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- * 1 tablespoon olive oil
- * 1 teaspoon paprika
- * 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- * Salt and pepper to taste
- **For the Filling:**
- * 1 cup chopped fresh spinach or 1/2 cup frozen, thawed and drained
- * 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- * 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- * 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- * 1 clove garlic minced
- * Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- **Preheat the oven** to 375°F (190°C).
- **Prepare the filling:** In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.
- **Butterfly the chicken:** Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
- **Stuff the chicken:** Fill each breast with the spinach-cheese mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- **Season and sear:** Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- **Bake:** Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- **Serve:** Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with your favorite side.