Stuffed Chicken with Spinach: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe for Dinner

Stuffed Chicken with Spinach is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken and vibrant spinach, creating a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. As I prepared this recipe for the first time, I was immediately struck by how the creamy filling perfectly complements the juicy chicken, making it a favorite in my household. This dish has roots in various culinary traditions, often celebrated for its versatility and ability to elevate a simple dinner into something extraordinary.

People love Stuffed Chicken with Spinach not just for its delicious taste, but also for its appealing texture and convenience. The combination of savory cheese and fresh spinach creates a delightful contrast, while the chicken remains moist and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Join me as we explore the steps to create this mouthwatering dish that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Filling

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s hot and ready for the chicken once we’re done preparing it. 2. **Sauté the Spinach**: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped spinach and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! 3. **Mix the Filling**: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic with the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. This filling should be creamy and flavorful, so taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Preparing the Chicken

4. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts**: Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket. Be sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a nice pocket to hold the filling. 5. **Season the Chicken**: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken itself, making every bite delicious.

Stuffing the Chicken

6. **Fill the Chicken**: Take a generous amount of the spinach and cheese filling and stuff it into each chicken breast pocket. Use your fingers to gently press the filling in, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Don’t overstuff, as you want to be able to close the pocket. 7. **Secure the Filling**: To keep the filling from spilling out during cooking, you can use toothpicks to secure the opening of each chicken breast. Just insert a toothpick at the opening to hold it closed. Alternatively, you can use kitchen twine to tie the chicken breasts if you prefer.

Cooking the Chicken

8. **Sear the Chicken**: In the same skillet you used for the spinach, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. This step adds a lovely color and flavor to the chicken. 9. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Once the chicken is nicely browned, transfer the stuffed chicken breasts to a baking dish. If you have any leftover filling, you can spoon it over the top of the chicken for extra flavor. 10. **Add Marinara Sauce**: Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. This will keep the chicken moist while it bakes and add a delicious tomato flavor. 11. **Bake the Chicken**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you want a nice golden top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Finishing Touches

12. **Check for Doneness**: After 30 minutes, check the chicken for doneness. If it’s cooked through, remove it from the oven. If not, give it a few more minutes, checking periodically. 13. **Let it Rest**: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy. 14. **Garnish and Serve**: If you like, garnish the stuffed chicken with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the chicken hot, spooning some of the marinara sauce over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta, a fresh

Conclusion:

In summary, this Stuffed Chicken with Spinach recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutritious spinach creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. For serving suggestions, consider pairing the stuffed chicken with a light side salad or some roasted vegetables to complement the flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with different fillings—try adding sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. I encourage you to give this Stuffed Chicken with Spinach a try and share your experience! I would love to hear how it turns out for you and any variations you come up with. Cooking is all about creativity and making it your own, so don’t hesitate to put your personal spin on this recipe. Happy cooking! Print