Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender chicken and a creamy, savory filling. This tasty recipe is perfect for dinner and can be enjoyed by the whole family. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken. First, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, thanks to the fresh spinach. Second, the combination of cream cheese and mozzarella makes the filling rich and creamy, which is simply irresistible. Lastly, it’s quick to prepare and bakes in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
How to Make Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Making Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or ½ cup thawed frozen, drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and give a light grease to a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, mozzarella, chopped spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If you’re feeling cheesy, mix in the Parmesan too!
- Grab a sharp knife and carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast—be gentle here; you don’t want to cut all the way through.
- Spoon the creamy spinach mixture into each pocket, pressing gently to ensure a good fill.
- Brush a bit of olive oil over the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts for a nice flavor and golden finish.
- Arrange the stuffed chicken in your prepared baking dish.
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
- For an irresistible golden crust, broil on high for 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides, like roasted veggies or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
How to Serve Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken is wonderful served alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. You can also pair it with a side of rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
How to Store Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating.
Tips to Make Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen spinach works as a great substitute.
- To keep chicken moist, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Feel free to add herbs or spices to the filling to customize the flavor.
Variation
You can change up the filling by adding other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or different types of cheese. This way, you can make this dish unique every time you prepare it!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. Is it necessary to use Italian seasoning?
No, you can substitute it with your favorite herbs or skip it entirely if you prefer a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
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