Description
This spinach stuffed chicken breasts recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy, flavorful mixture of spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, and spices. Baked until juicy and golden, this dish is a perfect protein-packed meal that is easy to prepare and great for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 ½ cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle them with olive oil or avocado oil to ensure even seasoning and moisture.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts for balanced flavor.
- Cut Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. This pocket will hold the spinach filling.
- Make Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped fresh spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt until well combined.
- Stuff Chicken: Spoon the spinach mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket, making sure it’s well filled but not overstuffed.
- Bake: Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and juices run clear.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and smoother filling.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach (thawed and drained) if fresh is unavailable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: spinach stuffed chicken, baked chicken breast, creamy spinach chicken, healthy chicken recipe, parmesan chicken, stuffed chicken breast
