Description
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, Parmesan, mayonnaise, and fresh spinach, seasoned with aromatic spices and baked to perfection. A delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a hearty dinner.
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) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season each chicken breast evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through the meat.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, chopped fresh spinach, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly blended.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the spinach and cheese filling into the pocket of each chicken breast, distributing it evenly. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if necessary to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Bake: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest & Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Remove any toothpicks before serving. Enjoy your delicious spinach stuffed chicken!
Notes
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter filling.
- For extra flavor, add some chopped garlic or herbs like basil or oregano to the filling.
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Let chicken rest covered loosely with foil after baking to keep it moist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American