In the realm of comforting and savory meals, there’s nothing quite like a beautifully prepared chicken dish that brings both elegance and flavor to your dinner table. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that does exactly this – Creamy Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts. This dish combines the tender juiciness of chicken breasts with the rich, velvety textures of cheese and cream, all while incorporating the nutritious goodness of spinach. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself and your loved ones to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
To create this masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, about 7 ounces each
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese, about 4 ounces total
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 2 tablespoons parmesan, grated
Directions:
The preparation and cooking process is straightforward, making it a feasible option for both experienced cooks and novices alike. Here’s how to bring this dish to life:
1. Preparation – Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Begin by butterflying each chicken breast. This involves slicing through the thicker part of the breast to open it up like a book, creating a pocket for your filling.
- Stuff each breast with two slices of mozzarella cheese and season both sides with salt and pepper. Once filled, fold the chicken breasts closed.
2. Cooking the Chicken – Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the chicken on both sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. This process is crucial for locking in flavors and ensuring a golden crust.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
3. Making the Creamy Spinach Sauce
- While the chicken is baking, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for another minute before gradually adding 1/2 cup of chicken broth, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in 3/4 cup of heavy cream and allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the spinach and parmesan, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Bringing It All Together
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and add it to the creamy spinach sauce, letting everything simmer together for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with sides of rice or potatoes, making for a rounded and fulfilling meal. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 658 kcal
- Servings: 4
Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy night in, this Creamy Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe promises a delightful culinary experience. Its combination of flavors and textures is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are transformed with a little love and culinary skill. Happy cooking!
Creamy Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients:
4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, about 7 ounces each
8 slices mozzarella cheese, about 4 ounces total
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon flour
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
2 tablespoons parmesan, grated
Directions:
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Butterfly each chicken breast and stuff with two slices of mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper, then fold closed.
In an ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Brown chicken on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 18-20 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and simmer until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add spinach and parmesan, cooking until spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove chicken from oven and add to the sauce, simmering together for 2 minutes.
Serve over rice or potatoes, if desired.
Kcal: 658 kcal | Servings: 4 servings