Imagine a dish so irresistibly creamy, so perfectly stuffed, and so incredibly easy to make that it transforms your ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. This One Pot Creamy Stuffed Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines the richness of cream cheese, the freshness of spinach, and the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of perfectly cooked chicken. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality dish that comes together in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by creating a pocket in each chicken breast. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice horizontally through the thickest part of the breast, creating a deep pocket without cutting all the way through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and chopped spinach. Mix thoroughly until well blended. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the cream cheese and spinach mixture. Ensure the filling is evenly distributed and the pocket is sealed by pressing the edges together.
- Season the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with additional salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, creating a nice crispy exterior.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet around the chicken breasts. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the skillet.
- Simmer the chicken for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- In the final 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each chicken breast. Cover and allow the cheese to melt completely.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate the creamy stuffed chicken and spoon any remaining pan sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Pocket Perfection: When creating the chicken breast pocket, use a sharp knife and a steady hand. Cut slowly and horizontally to ensure an even pocket without piercing through the sides.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Cheese Melting Trick: For the most luxurious cheese topping, add the mozzarella in the last 5 minutes of cooking and keep the lid on to create a steamy environment that helps the cheese melt evenly.
- Flavor Boost: Don't be afraid to add extra herbs like fresh thyme or basil to the cream cheese mixture for an additional flavor dimension.
- Prevent Sticking: Use a non-stick skillet or add a small amount of oil to prevent the chicken from sticking and to help achieve that beautiful golden-brown exterior.
- Resting Time Matters: Always let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 362kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 42g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 135mg
