This stuffed chicken breast is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken wrapped around creamy cheese and colorful veggies makes every bite a delight. Perfect for family dinners!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that looks fancy but is super easy to make? I love serving it with a side of rice and a sprinkle of herbs—so good! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy stuffing and cooking. If you want a different texture, try thighs—they’re juicier and more flavorful.
Spinach: Fresh spinach works wonderfully in this recipe. If you have frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using it.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the filling. You can substitute with ricotta cheese or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These give a nice punch of flavor. If you don’t have them, consider using fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead. Just chop them finely.
Italian Seasoning: It’s a blend of herbs that enhances the dish’s flavor. Feel free to use dried basil or oregano if you don’t have a mix on hand.
How Do I Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken breasts might sound tricky, but it’s quite simple! Start by making a pocket in the chicken. You want to slice them carefully, leaving one side attached so the filling won’t spill out.
- Use a sharp knife and cut horizontally through the thickest part of the chicken breast.
- When stuffing, be sure to pack the mixture in gently but firmly. This will help seal it.
- Secure the pocket with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside during cooking.
And don’t forget to let the chicken rest after baking! This helps keep the juices locked in for a juicy bite.
How to Make Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional for extra flavor)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stuffed chicken breast recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook. So in total, you should set aside about 40 minutes to make this tasty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready when it’s time to bake the chicken.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
3. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Take one chicken breast and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice it horizontally to create a pocket. Be gentle and don’t cut all the way through! Repeat this with the second chicken breast.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Press the filling gently to help seal the opening, making sure it’s packed in there nicely.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
6. Add Flavor:
If you’d like, pour the chicken broth into the skillet around the chicken for added moisture and flavor. This step is optional but can enhance the dish!
7. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the stuffed chicken breasts for about 20-25 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. After resting, slice the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes and green beans. Enjoy a delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheeses. For a sharper flavor, try using feta or goat cheese. For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta. Just keep the total amount of cheese similar to the original recipe for best results.
How Do I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or a blended mixture of cashews and nutritional yeast. Use dairy-free mozzarella or omit the cheese entirely. You might want to add a splash of almond milk to keep it creamy!
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the stuffed chicken breasts, cover them tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready, just sear and bake as instructed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, covering it with a lid until warmed through.
