Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: Spinach Stuffed Chicken! Seriously, this recipe has it all—it’s healthy, packed with flavor, and oh-so-easy to make. Whenever I’m in the mood for something comforting yet nutritious, I whip up this delightful dish. The combination of tender chicken fillet and a savory spinach and cheese mixture is just heavenly. Plus, spinach is such a powerhouse of nutrients, so you can feel good about indulging in this meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions. Let’s dive into how to make it, shall we?
Ingredients for Spinach Stuffed Chicken
- 4 chicken fillets, boneless and skinless
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened for easy mixing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for that rich, cheesy flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, because garlic makes everything better
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, to add a little kick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for browning the chicken
- Salt to taste, don’t forget to season!
Make sure to use fresh spinach for the best flavor—trust me, it makes a difference! You can also experiment with different types of cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Preheat and Mix Ingredients
First things first—let’s get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). This is super important, as it ensures that our chicken cooks evenly and perfectly. While that’s warming up, grab a mixing bowl and toss in the chopped fresh spinach, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper. Now, mix it all together until it’s nice and creamy. You want that spinach fully coated in cheesy goodness! If you want to add some herbs, like basil or oregano, now’s the time to sprinkle them in. It’ll amp up the flavor even more!
Stuffing the Chicken
Now for the fun part! Take those chicken fillets and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each fillet. You want to create a nice little space for our delicious spinach mixture—just be careful not to cut all the way through! Once you’ve made the pockets, it’s time to stuff them. Spoon the creamy spinach mixture into each pocket, making sure to fill them generously. Don’t be shy! This is where all the flavor hides!
Cooking the Chicken
Alright, let’s get cooking! Heat up that tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, gently place the stuffed chicken fillets in the skillet. Brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side—this gives them a lovely golden crust that seals in all the juiciness. Once they’re beautifully browned, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pop 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). You’ll know it’s perfect when the juices run clear. Ah, the aroma will have you drooling! Enjoy every bite of that cheesy, spinach goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Packed with flavor from the creamy spinach and cheese filling.
- Healthy option that doesn’t skimp on taste—hello, nutritious dinner!
- Impressive enough to serve at dinner parties yet simple for any cook.
- Versatile—swap in different cheeses or herbs to suit your taste.
- Leftovers? They taste even better the next day!
Nutritional Information for Spinach Stuffed Chicken
When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal without the guilt, this Spinach Stuffed Chicken hits the spot! Each serving (that’s one chicken fillet) packs in approximately 350 calories. You’ll also find around 20 grams of fat, with 10 grams being saturated fat. But don’t worry, it’s still a great source of protein, boasting about 30 grams! Plus, it only has 5 grams of carbs and 2 grams of sugar, making it a fantastic choice for a low-fat diet. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of the nutritious goodness you’re indulging in!
Tips for Success with Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Okay, let’s make sure your Spinach Stuffed Chicken turns out absolutely perfect! First, don’t rush the preheating—getting your oven to the right temperature is key for cooking the chicken evenly. Also, when you’re cutting those pockets, take your time! A sharp knife will make it much easier and safer. If you find that the spinach mixture is too thick, you can mix in a splash of milk or a bit more cream cheese to help it spread better.
Another tip? Let the stuffed chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing into it. This helps keep all those delicious juices inside! And if you want to elevate the dish even further, consider topping it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ About Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Got questions about making the perfect Spinach Stuffed Chicken? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my tips to help you out.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Frozen spinach can work great, but fresh really brings that vibrant flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Spinach Stuffed Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, steamed veggies, or some garlic bread. You can also whip up a light pasta or quinoa dish for a heartier meal!
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer—look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, just make sure the juices run clear when you cut into it.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s going in cold.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
No worries! You can substitute it with any cheese you love—mozzarella, feta, or even a sharp cheddar will work wonders. Just mix it up and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions for Spinach Stuffed Chicken
When it comes to serving your Spinach Stuffed Chicken, the options are endless! I love pairing it with a fresh, crisp side salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette—just the right balance to complement the rich flavors of the chicken. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add a beautiful touch of color and nutrition as well. If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, serve it alongside some fluffy quinoa or a light pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic. And don’t forget a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for that extra zing! Enjoy your delicious meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Got leftovers? Lucky you! To store your Spinach Stuffed Chicken, simply place it in an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to keep that lovely texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in a baking dish, covering it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave if you’re in a hurry, but be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants rubbery chicken! Enjoy every bite again!
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Spinach Stuffed Chicken: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Delightful Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Spinach Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and healthy dish featuring chicken fillet filled with a savory spinach and cheese mixture.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken fillet
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken fillet and stuff with the spinach mixture.
- Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the stuffed chicken on both sides for about 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Check that the chicken is cooked through before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor.
- Feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Spinach Stuffed Chicken