Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering recipe that combines the crispy allure of bacon, the creamy richness of feta, and the nutritious punch of spinach - all wrapped up in a perfectly juicy chicken breast! This show-stopping dish is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that will have your taste buds dancing and your dinner guests begging for the recipe. Imagine cutting into a golden-brown chicken breast to reveal a vibrant, cheesy spinach filling, all embraced by crispy, sizzling bacon - pure dinner magic awaits!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, cooked and drained
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the spinach by cooking it in a small pot over medium heat until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Drain the spinach well to remove excess moisture, then chop it finely.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked spinach, crumbled feta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Take each chicken breast and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each breast by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with an equal amount of the spinach and feta mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary, ensuring that the filling stays inside while cooking.
- Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with two slices of bacon, covering as much of the surface as possible. The bacon will not only add flavor but also help keep the chicken moist during cooking.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Once the chicken is seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier chicken.
- Carefully remove the toothpicks if used. Serve the bacon-wrapped spinach and feta stuffed chicken warm, garnished with additional spinach or feta if desired. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean meal!
Tips
- Moisture is Key: Thoroughly drain the spinach to prevent a soggy filling. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out excess water.
- Even Stuffing: Use a sharp knife and create an even pocket in the chicken breast to ensure uniform filling distribution.
- Bacon Placement: Overlap bacon slices slightly to create a complete coverage that helps lock in moisture.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Resting Time Matters: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and keep the meat tender.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to cook, making meal prep a breeze.
- Serve with Complementary Sides: This dish pairs beautifully with a light Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a quinoa pilaf to complete your Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 120mg
