Description
Juicy Stuffed Chicken Breast
Take your chicken game to the next level with these scrumptious stuffed chicken breasts! Filled with cream cheese, mozzarella, and spinach, these chicken breasts are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for both special occasions and cozy dinners at home. With a golden crust and a mouthwatering cheesy stuffing, every bite will leave you craving for more. Serve with roasted veggies or a fresh green salad for a complete, hearty meal.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chopped spinach
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Toothpicks
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, stuff with cheese-spinach mixture, and secure with toothpicks.
4. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
5. Sear in a skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 420
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until a uniform mixture forms.
2. Create the Pocket: Place a chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally into the thickest side of the breast, stopping about 1/2 inch from the opposite edge to create a deep pocket. Repeat for all breasts.
3. Stuff and Secure: Divide the cheese-spinach filling evenly among the four chicken pockets. Use a spoon to press it in gently. Secure the opening of each breast with 2-3 toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
4. Sear to Perfection: Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed breasts. Sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
5. Finish in the Oven: Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Serve: Remove from oven, tent with foil, and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides to create a balanced plate. For a classic pairing, serve alongside roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. To make it a low-carb meal, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for a final touch.
How-to Summary
Create a cheesy spinach-garlic filling. Cut pockets into chicken breasts, stuff them, and secure with toothpicks. Pan-sear to create a golden crust, then bake until the chicken is fully cooked through. Always allow the meat to rest before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the stuffed breasts up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before searing.
Can I use frozen spinach? Absolutely. Thaw frozen chopped spinach completely and squeeze out ALL excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture will make the filling watery.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet? After searing, simply transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish or sheet pan lined with parchment paper for the oven stage.
How do I know when the chicken is done? The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding the filling) – it should read 165°F (74°C).
Can I use other fillings? Definitely. This method is versatile. Try fillings with sun-dried tomatoes and feta, ham and Swiss cheese, or a mixture of herbs and goat cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overstuffing the Chicken: This can cause the pocket to tear open during cooking. Use a moderate amount of filling.
- Skipping the Sear: Searing locks in juices and creates essential flavor. Don’t rush this step.
- Not Removing Excess Moisture from Spinach: Wet filling will steam inside the chicken, preventing proper browning and creating a soggy texture.
- Cutting the Pocket All the Way Through: Ensure you leave one side intact to create a true pocket, not a full slit.
- Forgetting to Remove Toothpicks: Always remind your guests or remove them yourself before serving to prevent any accidents.
Conclusion
Mastering this stuffed chicken breast recipe is a surefire way to elevate your home cooking. The combination of a crispy exterior, juicy chicken, and a molten, flavorful center is universally appealing. By following the detailed steps, avoiding common pitfalls, and using the provided serving ideas, you can create an impressive and delicious meal that feels restaurant-quality with minimal fuss. It’s a perfect technique to have in your culinary repertoire for both weeknights and entertaining.