Description
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, Parmesan, spinach, and spices, baked to perfection for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Stuffing
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 ½ cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the proper temperature while you prepare the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle them evenly with the olive or avocado oil to help the spices stick and keep the chicken moist during baking.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this spice mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts for balanced flavor.
- Make Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast to create space for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut through both sides.
- Prepare Stuffing: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Stir thoroughly to create a well-mixed, creamy stuffing.
- Stuff Chicken: Evenly spoon the spinach mixture into the pockets of each chicken breast, ensuring each is well filled.
- Bake: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a 9×13 inch baking dish, uncovered. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the stuffing is hot and slightly golden on top.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- You can use fresh or frozen spinach; if using frozen, be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.
- For a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
