Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through; leave a small edge intact.
- Flatten the Chicken (Optional): If you prefer, you can pound the chicken breasts slightly with a meat mallet to make them even thinner and easier to stuff.
Step 2: Make the Spinach and Cheese Filling
- Sauté the Spinach: In a large skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
- Fill Each Breast: Take the spinach and cheese mixture and fill each chicken breast pocket generously, pressing down gently to ensure the filling stays inside. You may use toothpicks to secure the openings if needed.
- Season the Chicken: Drizzle the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and additional Italian seasoning if desired.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. If using breadcrumbs, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning in a bowl, then sprinkle over the top of the chicken for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let it Rest: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will help retain the juices.
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the stuffed chicken breasts and serve garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Pair it with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken Breasts
- Quality Chicken: Choose chicken breasts that are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Cream Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Ricotta or feta can add a unique flavor to the filling.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding other ingredients to the filling, such as sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly without drying it out.
Conclusion
These Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts are not only delicious but also an easy way to elevate your cooking game. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe provides a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. Perfect for any occasion, these stuffed chicken breasts are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delightful dish and the compliments that come with it! Happy cooking!