Description
Delicious spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, then seared and baked to perfection. This easy, nutritious meal is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing chicken)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra flavor)
Spinach Cheese Filling
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to prepare for baking.
- Cook spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Prepare filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Create chicken pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally through the thickest part to form a pocket, taking care not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff chicken: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Sear chicken: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake chicken: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Remove chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Optional: drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, fresh flavor before serving.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked fully by checking it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, thawed and drained, if fresh is unavailable.
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh basil or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
- Remove toothpicks before serving to avoid injury.
- This recipe pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
