Savory Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Welcome to our kitchen, where today we’ll be diving into a delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite: Savory Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy filling, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 teaspoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of kick)

Directions:

1. Preheat Your Oven Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s hot and ready to bake your stuffed chicken to perfection.
2. Prepare the Chicken Gently create a pocket in each chicken breast with a sharp knife. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want to create a space for the filling.
3. Make the Filling In a bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. This mixture will become the savory stuffing for your chicken.
4. Stuff the Chicken Spoon the filling into the pockets of the chicken breasts. To keep the filling inside while baking, seal the openings with toothpicks.
5. Season the Chicken Rub the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will add flavor and help the chicken brown nicely.
6. Bake Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

Cooking Tips:

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the filling a vibrant flavor and color. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
• Check Doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories: 310 per serving
• Servings: 4

This Savory Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete dinner. Enjoy!