If you’re looking for a nutritious, flavorful dish that’s both impressive and easy to make, then this Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender, juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and savory ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Follow our detailed guide to create the ultimate stuffed chicken breast that will wow your guests. Keep reading to discover how to make this delightful dish step-by-step!
What is Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast?
Spinach stuffed chicken breast is a versatile, protein-packed dish that features boneless, skinless chicken breasts filled with a delicious mixture of sautéed spinach, garlic, and cheese. The chicken is then baked to golden perfection, making it tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. This dish is not only visually appealing but also loaded with nutrients, thanks to the spinach and lean protein from the chicken. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients List for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Before diving into the preparation, here’s what you’ll need for the basic spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Spinach Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed, and drained)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
Cheese Variations:
- Feta cheese instead of mozzarella adds a tangy Mediterranean twist.
- Goat cheese can be used for a creamier, richer flavor.
Protein Alternatives:
- You can use turkey breast or even pork chops as an alternative to chicken.
Greens Substitution:
- Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a slightly different taste and texture.
Add-Ins:
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts to elevate the stuffing mixture.
- Add bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your spinach stuffed chicken breast. The process may look involved, but it's quite simple once you break it down.
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the dish.
2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a deep pocket in the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season the inside and outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Make the Spinach Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, add fresh spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained. Once the spinach is cooked, remove from heat and stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything together until well-combined.
4. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
Divide the spinach mixture into four portions. Carefully stuff each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to seal the chicken breasts if necessary to keep the stuffing intact.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in the flavors and gives the chicken a nice crispy texture.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to your prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Cook Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare Ingredients: Preheat the oven and season the chicken breasts.
- Make the Filling: Sauté garlic and spinach, then mix with cheeses.
- Stuff the Chicken: Fill the pockets of chicken breasts with the spinach mixture.
- Sear and Bake: Sear the chicken in a skillet, then bake until fully cooked.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making spinach stuffed chicken breasts, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result:
- Overstuffing the Chicken: Be cautious not to overfill the chicken pockets as this can cause the stuffing to leak out while cooking.
- Skipping the Searing Step: Searing adds a nice crust and locks in moisture, so don’t skip this step!
- Undercooking the Chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Using Too Much Moisture in the Filling: Make sure to drain excess moisture from the spinach, especially if you’re using frozen spinach, to avoid soggy filling.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Making sure your spinach stuffed chicken breast is not only delicious but also visually appealing can make the dining experience even more enjoyable. Here are some presentation ideas:
How to Serve Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast:
- Slice diagonally: Before serving, slice each chicken breast diagonally to reveal the beautiful green spinach and creamy cheese filling inside.
- Plate with Sides: Serve the chicken alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple side salad for a well-balanced meal.
Presentation Ideas for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast:
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added color and a fresh aroma.
- Drizzle with a light balsamic reduction for an extra touch of elegance.
- Serve on a rustic wooden board for a family-style presentation.
Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe Tips
- Use toothpicks to secure the filling: This ensures that your filling stays intact while cooking.
- Sear for extra flavor: Searing locks in the juices and adds a crisp golden color to the chicken.
- Don’t overcook: Overcooking can make the chicken dry. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
- Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make spinach stuffed chicken breast ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze spinach stuffed chicken breast?
A: Absolutely. Once cooked, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with spinach stuffed chicken breast?
A: This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Q: How do I know if my chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in the filling.
Conclusion
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is a delightful, healthy, and flavorful option that’s sure to impress. With its perfect blend of tender chicken, rich cheese, and nutritious spinach, it’s a dish you’ll want to make over and over again. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe delivers in taste, texture, and presentation. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and sides to make it your own!
PrintSpinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
This spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe combines tender chicken with a rich filling of spinach, cream cheese, garlic, and herbs for a savory and satisfying meal. Perfect for those seeking a healthy yet flavorful dish, this recipe is easy to prepare and great for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Featuring fresh ingredients, this dish is a high-protein, low-carb option that fits well into various diets, including keto and gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and garlic.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture and secure with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
- Transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add other cheeses like feta or parmesan for extra flavor.
- For a quicker version, use frozen spinach (thawed and drained).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
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