If you're looking for a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that feels gourmet, this Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is perfect for you. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, then baked to golden perfection. Itโs an ideal weeknight dinner or even a special occasion meal thatโs sure to impress without too much fuss. Stick around to get the full recipe, substitutions, variations, and tips to make this stuffed chicken a showstopper!

What is Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast?
Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a dish where chicken breasts are sliced open to create pockets, then stuffed with a flavorful filling made from sautรฉed spinach, cheese, garlic, and seasonings. The chicken is then baked (or pan-seared and baked) until perfectly cooked, leaving you with tender, juicy chicken and a delicious cheesy spinach stuffing inside. This recipe is a healthy, low-carb, and protein-packed meal thatโs rich in flavor yet easy to make.
Ingredients List for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
To make the best spinach stuffed chicken, youโll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts โ Choose medium to large breasts so thereโs enough space to stuff them.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil โ For searing the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder โ To season the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon paprika โ Adds a bit of color and subtle smokiness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste โ Essential for seasoning the chicken.
For the Spinach Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained) โ Fresh or frozen spinach will both work well.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened โ Adds creaminess to the filling.
- ยฝ cup shredded mozzarella cheese โ For a gooey, melty texture.
- ยผ cup grated Parmesan cheese โ Adds a savory, salty flavor to the filling.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced โ Garlic enhances the flavor of the spinach.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil โ For sautรฉing the spinach.
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional) โ A touch of nutmeg pairs well with spinach and adds a subtle warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste โ For seasoning the filling.
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is flexible, so feel free to get creative or adjust it to your dietary needs. Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try:
- Chicken Thighs โ You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They may not hold as much filling, but theyโll be extra juicy.
- Dairy-Free Option โ Use dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese for a lactose-free version.
- Add Sundried Tomatoes โ For extra flavor, mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the spinach filling.
- Use Feta Cheese โ Swap the mozzarella or Parmesan for crumbled feta for a tangy, briny flavor.
- Keto-Friendly โ This recipe is naturally keto-friendly, but make sure to use a low-carb cheese if needed to keep it fully compliant.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making spinach stuffed chicken breasts might sound fancy, but it's actually quite simple. Just follow these steps, and you'll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on your dinner table in no time.
How to Cook Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) and grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Spinach Filling:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sautรฉ for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach to the pan and cook until wilted (about 3-4 minutes). If using frozen spinach, make sure it's thawed and well-drained before adding it to the pan.
- Remove the spinach from heat and let it cool slightly. In a bowl, mix the spinach with the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well-combined.
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
- Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to slice all the way through. You want the pocket to be deep enough to hold the filling, but the chicken breast should remain intact.
- Season the chicken breasts all over (inside and out) with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
- Spoon the spinach mixture into the pockets of each chicken breast, dividing the filling evenly among the four pieces. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if needed, so the filling doesnโt spill out while cooking.
- Sear the Chicken Breasts (Optional but Recommended):
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a nice golden-brown color. This will lock in the juices and add extra flavor.
- Bake the Chicken:
- If youโve used an oven-safe skillet, transfer the skillet directly into the oven. If not, place the seared chicken into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165ยฐF/75ยฐC).
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist. Slice and serve with your favorite sides!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overstuffing the Chicken: Donโt try to overfill the chicken breasts. Too much filling will cause it to spill out during cooking. Keep a moderate amount inside the pocket.
- Not Searing the Chicken: Searing adds a lot of flavor and helps the chicken retain its juices. While you can skip this step, it's highly recommended for the best results.
- Undercooking the Chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ยฐF (75ยฐC) before serving to avoid undercooked chicken.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Spinach stuffed chicken breasts are satisfying on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can make this dish even more enjoyable. Here are some serving and presentation tips.
How to Serve Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve the stuffed chicken alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a nutritious and balanced meal.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken on a bed of rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the juices from the chicken.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the richness of the spinach filling perfectly.
- With a Side Salad: For a lighter option, pair the stuffed chicken with a fresh, simple salad. A balsamic vinaigrette works well with the savory chicken.
Presentation Ideas for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
A few simple presentation tips can elevate your spinach stuffed chicken breasts and make them look as impressive as they taste:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the top before serving for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Slice the Chicken Before Serving: Slice the chicken breast at an angle to reveal the colorful spinach filling inside. This not only looks beautiful but also makes it easier for guests to eat.
- Serve on a Platter: Serve the stuffed chicken breasts on a platter surrounded by your sides for a family-style presentation.
Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe Tips
- Use Toothpicks: If you're worried about the filling spilling out during cooking, secure the opening of each chicken breast with toothpicks before cooking. Just remember to remove them before serving!
- Make it Ahead: You can prep the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Double the Recipe: If you want leftovers or are cooking for a crowd, this recipe doubles easily. Just be sure not to overcrowd the pan or baking dish when cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When youโre ready to bake, simply follow the searing and baking instructions.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can freeze stuffed chicken breasts either before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and follow the recipe instructions. If freezing after cooking, store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes! If using frozen spinach, make sure itโs fully thawed and squeezed dry to remove any excess water before mixing it with the cheese filling.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
A: Absolutely! You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, sautรฉed mushrooms, or even cooked bacon bits to the spinach filling for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. With juicy chicken breasts filled with a flavorful and creamy spinach mixture, itโs a dish thatโs both healthy and satisfying. Whether youโre making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this stuffed chicken will surely impress. Now that youโve got all the steps and tips, itโs time to get cooking! Enjoy your delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make spinach stuffed chicken breasts.
PrintSpinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe features juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy blend of spinach, cream cheese, garlic, and mozzarella. The golden-baked chicken locks in the rich, savory stuffing, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. Ideal for a healthy yet indulgent dinner, this dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a simple salad. With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, it's a delicious way to elevate a simple chicken dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts
- Fresh spinach
- Cream cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
- Toothpicks
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
- Sautรฉ spinach and garlic in olive oil until wilted. Mix in cream cheese and mozzarella.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture and secure with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Transfer to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or Parmesan to the spinach mixture.
- Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Use toothpicks to ensure the filling stays inside while cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
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