Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Butterfly the Chicken: Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally through the thickest part of the breast, stopping just before you cut all the way through. Open the breast like a book to create a butterfly shape.
- Season: Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Filling
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Stuff and Seal the Chicken Breasts
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the spinach filling evenly onto one side of each butterflied chicken breast. Fold the other side over the filling to enclose it.
- Secure: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the edges of the chicken breasts and keep the filling inside.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
- Mix the Coating: In a shallow bowl or dish, combine almond flour (or breadcrumbs), grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Dredge: Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Then, dredge it in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating to all sides.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken Breasts
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish. Drizzle or spray lightly with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
Step 6: Serve
- Rest and Serve: Remove the stuffed chicken breasts from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks or twine before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and alongside your favorite low-carb sides such as steamed vegetables or a side salad.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
- Secure the Filling: Ensure the chicken breasts are properly sealed with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Even Coating: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the almond flour mixture for a crispy exterior.
- Variations: Feel free to customize the filling with ingredients like feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs for added flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with these delicious low-carb sides:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts.
- Cauliflower Rice: Enjoy with cauliflower rice pilaf for a complete meal.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.
Final Thoughts
We hope this detailed guide has provided you with a fantastic recipe for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts and inspired you to enjoy the process of cooking. This dish offers a healthy and flavorful option for a satisfying low-carb dinner. Enjoy your culinary creation, and remember, the best meals are those made with love and care. Happy cooking!