This easy chicken breast dish is a winner! Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with creamy feta and healthy spinach for a tasty meal. It’s great for lunch or dinner, and ready in a snap!
I love how the feta makes everything extra yummy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in veggies. You can’t go wrong with a recipe this quick and delicious!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. They require a slightly longer cooking time but add great flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this dish as it wilts nicely when cooked. If you have frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy flavor to the dish. If you can’t find feta, you could use goat cheese or even a creamy ricotta for a different taste but still delicious!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth to the dish. You can substitute it with garlic powder if you’re in a pinch, but fresh is always a better choice for flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps cook the garlic. If you want a different flavor, try using avocado oil or even butter for sautéing.
How Do I Make Sure to Stuff the Chicken Breasts Correctly?
Stuffing chicken breasts can seem tricky, but with a little care, it’s easy! First, use a sharp knife to create a pocket in the thickest part of the chicken breast. Be careful not to cut through the other side.
- Start at the thick edge and move towards the thinner side.
- Gently use your fingers to feel where the pocket goes and make it as deep as you can without breaking through.
- When stuffing, use a spoon to push the filling in evenly, ensuring some stays in the middle.
- For better cooking, make sure the pocket is well-filled, but don’t overstuff it, as it can burst while baking.
Following these tips will help you get a delicious filling in every bite! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty chicken dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach:
In a skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook it for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool for a moment.
3. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach and garlic with the crumbled feta cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well to create a delicious filling for your chicken.
4. Prepare the Chicken:
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Be sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a nice pocket for the filling. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture, spreading it out evenly inside.
5. Season and Bake:
Sprinkle paprika on both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts for added flavor and color. Then, place the stuffed chicken into a baking dish and cover it with foil to keep it moist during cooking.
6. Finish Cooking:
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and then serve your delicious feta and spinach stuffed chicken. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s important to thaw them fully first. The best way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the quick method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging in cold water until thawed.
What If I Don’t Have Feta Cheese?
No problem at all! You can substitute feta with other cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, or even mozzarella for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that feta gives a tangy taste, so choose a cheese that complements the dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If the chicken seems dry after reheating, adding a splash of chicken broth can help moisten it.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like sun-dried tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, or artichokes to the spinach and feta filling. Just make sure to adjust the amount to keep the filling balanced and delicious!
