Prepare to elevate your dinner game with a restaurant-worthy stuffed chicken breast that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This mouthwatering recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary culinary experience, combining creamy cheese, vibrant spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a perfectly seasoned, golden-brown package. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe promises restaurant-quality flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped cooked spinach, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Place chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Generously stuff each chicken breast with the prepared cream cheese and vegetable mixture, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed and packed tightly.
- Secure the open edges of each stuffed chicken breast with toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Season the outside of each chicken breast with additional salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet with seared chicken breasts directly into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving.
- Slice chicken breasts diagonally and plate, allowing the melted cheese and stuffing to be visible. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Stuffing Technique: When creating the pocket in the chicken breast, use a sharp knife and cut horizontally, being careful not to pierce through the entire breast.
- Prevent Leakage: Secure the stuffed chicken with toothpicks to keep the delicious filling inside during cooking.
- Searing Matters: The initial sear creates a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in flavor and creates a stunning presentation.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing mixture up to a day in advance to save time on cooking day.
- Garnish Options: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a pop of color and extra freshness to your finished dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 180mg
