Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines the richness of cream cheese with the health benefits of spinach, all encased in succulent chicken breasts. The filling keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, while the crispy outside adds texture. Plus, it’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and takes only 30 minutes to make!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a pan, sauté the spinach until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix the spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture.
- Secure the chicken with toothpicks and season with salt and pepper.
- In a hot skillet, cook the chicken on both sides until golden, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Total Time: 30 minutes (prep: 10 minutes, cook: 20 minutes)
Variations
- Cheese Variations: You can use goat cheese or feta for a tangy flavor.
- Herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the spinach mixture for extra flavor.
- Add Nuts: For a crunchy twist, add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the spinach filling.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the filling.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well, but they may take a little longer to cook.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat-based ingredients.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can stuff and sear the chicken breasts in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to bake. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Can I cook this on the grill?
Yes, you can cook the stuffed chicken on the grill. Make sure to use indirect heat to prevent the stuffing from burning.
Can I add more vegetables to the stuffing?
Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, artichokes, or even roasted red peppers to the spinach mixture for added flavor.
How do I prevent the stuffing from falling out?
Secure the chicken with toothpicks before cooking to hold the stuffing in place.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese if you want a lighter version of the dish.
What can I serve with this stuffed chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or a cauliflower mash for a low-carb meal.
Conclusion
This spinach stuffed chicken breast is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dinner that will satisfy your taste buds. With creamy spinach filling and juicy chicken, it’s a meal that’s both wholesome and flavorful. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s a dish you’ll return to time and time again!
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Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a healthy, flavorful dinner option that combines creamy spinach and tender chicken for a satisfying meal. Quick to prepare and keto-friendly, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners. With just a few ingredients, this dish is packed with nutrients and rich flavors, making it an ideal choice for both busy cooks and health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
- Sauté the spinach in a pan until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine the wilted spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture.
- Secure the chicken with toothpicks and season the outside with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken on both sides until golden, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a different flavor, swap the mozzarella for goat cheese or feta.
- Add fresh herbs such as basil or parsley to the spinach mixture for extra flavor.
- To add some crunch, mix chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the filling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Low Carb, Keto
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
