- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, chopped artichokes, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and minced garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well blended.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the side of each breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Spoon the spinach artichoke mixture into the pockets of each chicken breast evenly.
- Secure the openings with toothpicks if necessary to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Sprinkle the additional mozzarella cheese over the top of each chicken breast and add a sprinkle of paprika or Italian seasoning if desired.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Remove the toothpicks, and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfection:
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the chicken breasts; otherwise, the filling may spill out during cooking.
- Secure the Chicken: Using toothpicks to secure the openings of the stuffed chicken breasts helps keep all the delicious filling inside while cooking.
- Check Internal Temperature: Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken ensures that it is fully cooked without being overdone.
This spinach artichoke stuffed chicken breast is not only flavorful and filling but also makes a visually impressive dish suitable for special occasions or a regular weeknight dinner. Enjoy your meal with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience!