Description
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, Parmesan, fresh spinach, and flavorful spices. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a hearty and nutritious meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups chopped fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Remaining ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Season Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, then evenly season them with paprika, garlic powder, and half of the salt.
- Create Pockets: Carefully cut pockets into the thick side of each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, chopped spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining salt to create a flavorful stuffing mixture.
- Stuff Chicken: Spoon the spinach mixture into each chicken breast pocket, distributing it evenly.
- Bake: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor; frozen spinach can be used but ensure it is well-drained.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness.
- Ensure chicken breasts are of similar size for even cooking.
- Let chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing to retain juices.
- Serve with a side of rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
