This Spinach Stuffed Chicken is a simple yet elegant dinner made with juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy spinach and Parmesan mixture. It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests, making it a reliable go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy, flavorful chicken with a creamy filling
- Simple ingredients and minimal prep
- Baked, not fried, for a lighter meal
- Family-friendly and naturally low carb
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle with oil.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Parmesan, mayonnaise, spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Spoon the spinach mixture evenly into each chicken breast.
- Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in a 9×13 baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the filling is hot.
Tips & Tricks
- Do not cut all the way through the chicken when creating the pocket
- Secure the filling with toothpicks if needed
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly, low carb, gluten-free
Notes
You can substitute frozen spinach if needed; just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture. For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or black pepper to the filling.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 38 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fat: 28 g
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but adjust cooking time and ensure they are thick enough to stuff.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Do not overbake and allow the chicken to rest after cooking.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it is naturally low in carbs.
Can I add other cheeses?
Mozzarella or cheddar can be added for variation.
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave
Similar Recipes
Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt divided
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle with oil.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Parmesan, mayonnaise, spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Spoon the spinach mixture evenly into each chicken breast.
- Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in a 9×13 baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the filling is hot.
Notes
Conclusion
This Spinach Stuffed Chicken is creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. It’s a dependable recipe that delivers comfort and elegance with minimal effort.