Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of spinach, garlic, and cheese. Easy enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for guests, it delivers comfort and protein in one satisfying, low-carb dish.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts
cream cheese (softened)
frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
garlic (minced)
salt
black pepper
paprika
olive oil or butter
toothpicks or kitchen twine
directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, drained spinach, shredded cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Cut a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through.
Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach-cheese mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.
Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes, remove toothpicks, and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes
Variations
Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the filling.
Use goat cheese or feta for a tangier flavor.
Coat the chicken in breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
Wrap the stuffed chicken in prosciutto or bacon before baking.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F or microwave in short intervals.
Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach?
Yes, just sauté it first to remove moisture before mixing.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Use toothpicks or tie with twine, and avoid overstuffing.
Can I cook it without searing first?
Yes, but searing adds flavor and a golden crust.
Is this keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein and fat.
What sides go well with this?
Roasted veggies, mashed cauliflower, or a light salad pair perfectly.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes, stuff and refrigerate the chicken up to a day ahead.
Conclusion
Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, cheesy filling. Perfect for busy nights or special meals, it’s a delicious way to serve up wholesome comfort with minimal effort.
PrintSpinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking / Stuffed
- Cuisine: American / Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach and cream cheese filling—an elegant yet easy main dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, chopped spinach, cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice through.
- Spoon filling evenly into each chicken pocket.
- Brush chicken with olive oil and season outside with salt and pepper.
- Place in baking dish and bake 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Optional: broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden top.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with vegetables, pasta, or rice.
- Store leftovers in refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat gently.
Notes
- Use frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) if fresh is unavailable.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or cooked bacon to the filling for extra flavor.
- Make ahead by stuffing chicken and storing in fridge before baking.
- Try different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for variation.
- Cover with marinara and mozzarella for a chicken rollatini twist.