Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden chicken breast and revealing a creamy, cheesy spinach filling that oozes with flavor - this Spinach and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast isn't just a meal, it's a culinary adventure waiting to happen! Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet weeknight dinner, this recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dining experience that's surprisingly simple to create.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach and garlic mixture with the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a space to hold the filling.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture, using your fingers or a spoon to pack it in securely. If needed, you can use toothpicks to secure the opening of the chicken breasts.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat a bit more olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
- Once the chicken is browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
- Slice the stuffed chicken breasts in half to reveal the delicious filling, and serve warm. Enjoy your Spinach and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts with a side of your choice!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe, juicy results.
- Pocket Technique: When creating the chicken breast pocket, use a sharp knife and cut horizontally, keeping the sides intact to prevent the filling from leaking.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting quality and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Don't Overstuff: While the filling is delicious, too much can cause the chicken to split or cook unevenly. Aim for a moderate, even fill.
- Resting Time is Crucial: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 42g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 135mg
