Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts – a healthy low carb dinner option!

What Makes This Recipe a Favorite

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts offer a wonderful balance of taste and texture. The tender chicken complements the savory, creamy spinach filling perfectly. This dish appeals to anyone looking for a healthy dinner that does not sacrifice flavor.

The cooking method ensures that the chicken stays juicy while the spinach adds color and nutrition. This recipe consistently produces reliable results, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal. You can also explore other recipes like Stuffed Bell Peppers for more delicious options.

Ingredients for This Recipe

Gather these ingredients for tasty spinach stuffed chicken breasts:

  • Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken for easy preparation. They remain tender while cooking.
  • Fresh spinach: This adds flavor and nutrients to the dish. Opt for fresh rather than frozen spinach.
  • Cream cheese: Cream cheese provides creaminess. It enhances the filling and binds the ingredients.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic flavor. It gives depth to the spinach mixture.
  • Parmesan cheese: Use grated Parmesan for a rich taste. It melts well and adds a delicious crust.
  • Onion powder: Onion powder adds mild onion flavor. It complements the spinach well.
  • Salt: Salt enhances all flavors in the dish. Adjust according to taste.
  • Black pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a touch of heat. It balances the rich flavors.

You will find measurements in the recipe card.

How to Make This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

This dish is easy to make and perfect for home cooks. Follow these simple steps to prepare your meal.

Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature helps cook the chicken evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the filling
In a bowl, mix the fresh spinach, cream cheese, garlic, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure everything combines well for a flavorful filling.

Step 3: Butterfly the chicken
Lay each chicken breast on a cutting board. Carefully slice each breast open along the side to create a pocket.

Step 4: Stuff the chicken
Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach mixture. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly.

Step 5: Secure the chicken
Use toothpicks to close the openings after stuffing. This helps keep the filling inside while cooking.

Step 6: Bake
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 7: Serve
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes. Remove toothpicks and serve hot.

Tips for Success

These tips can help you succeed with this recipe:

  1. Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach has better flavor and texture than frozen.
  2. Avoid overstuffing: Stuff just enough filling to prevent spills during baking.
  3. Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).
  4. Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest briefly after cooking for juicier results.

These tips will help ensure your spinach stuffed chicken breasts turn out great.

Equipment Needed

  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Toothpicks
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Variations

  • Cheese blend: Use different cheese like feta for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Spices: Add red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Herbs: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano for extra flavor.
  • Vegetable mix: Include bell peppers or mushrooms in the spinach filling for more texture.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side salad: Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
  • Steamed vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.
  • Cauliflower rice: Offer cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

FAQs About This Recipe

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I use other meats?
Yes, you can use turkey or pork, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I freeze these stuffed chicken breasts?
Yes, freeze them before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator and then bake when ready to eat.

Spinach stuffed chicken breasts on a plate, showcasing a healthy dinner option.

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Deliciously juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach filling, perfect for a healthy and flavorful dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use for easy preparation.
  • 8 oz Fresh spinach Opt for fresh rather than frozen.
  • 4 oz Cream cheese Provides creaminess and binds the filling.
  • 2 cloves Fresh garlic Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Melts well and adds a delicious crust.
  • 1 tsp Onion powder Complements the spinach well.
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper Adds a touch of heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the fresh spinach, cream cheese, garlic, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Lay each chicken breast on a cutting board and carefully slice each breast open along the side to create a pocket.
  4. Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach mixture and distribute the filling evenly.
  5. Use toothpicks to close the openings after stuffing.
  6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
  7. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes before removing toothpicks and serving hot.

Notes

Use fresh spinach for better flavor and texture. Avoid overstuffing to prevent spills. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Allow the chicken to rest briefly after cooking for juicier results.

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