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Tender Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Mozzarella

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A quick and easy stuffed chicken breast recipe featuring fresh spinach and creamy mozzarella that stays tender and juicy, perfect for cozy dinners and impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped (about 90 g)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn into small pieces (225 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 25 g)
  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the chicken breasts

Instructions

  1. Prep the Spinach Filling: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Carefully slice a horizontal pocket into each breast without cutting all the way through. Season inside and outside with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
  3. Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the cooled spinach mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket. Add fresh mozzarella pieces evenly. Secure openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
  4. Sear the Chicken (optional): Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown. This step is optional.
  5. Bake the Chicken: Transfer stuffed breasts to an oven-safe baking dish or sheet pan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and cheese is melted.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to redistribute juices. Remove toothpicks or twine before serving.

Notes

Use a sharp knife to create the pocket in the chicken breasts to avoid tearing. Sautéing spinach and garlic before stuffing prevents excess moisture and sogginess. Securing the chicken with toothpicks or twine is essential to keep filling inside. Searing before baking is optional but adds flavor and a golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; remove chicken at 165°F (74°C). Let chicken rest after baking for juiciness. Frozen spinach can be used if thawed and excess moisture squeezed out. Variations include adding pesto, jalapeño, or swapping cheeses.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed chicken breast, spinach, mozzarella, easy dinner, quick recipe, healthy chicken, baked chicken, comfort food

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/tender-stuffed-chicken-breast-with-spinach-and-mozzarella-easy-recipe-to-impress/