Name: Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium medium boneless skinless chicken breasts (Use similar sizes for even cooking.); 1 teaspoon salt (Plus a pinch for the filling.); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper; 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (Optional for heat.); 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (Should be fully softened before use.); 1 cup chopped spinach, packed and squeezed dry (Fresh is best, but frozen works if thawed and drained.); 1-2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella

Description

A quick and impressive dish featuring chicken breasts stuffed with a savory spinach and cream cheese filling, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 medium medium boneless skinless chicken breasts (Use similar sizes for even cooking.)
1 teaspoon salt (Plus a pinch for the filling.)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (Optional for heat.)

For the Filling

4 ounces cream cheese, softened (Should be fully softened before use.)
1 cup chopped spinach, packed and squeezed dry (Fresh is best, but frozen works if thawed and drained.)
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella

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Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and slice a deep pocket into the thickest side of each, about three-quarters of the way through.
Season the outside of the chicken with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Making the Filling

In a bowl, stir the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Mix in the chopped spinach, minced garlic, Parmesan or mozzarella, a small pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Adjust seasonings to taste and ensure the mixture is spreadable.

Cooking the Chicken

Stuff each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of the filling, being careful not to overfill.
Rub the outsides of the chicken with olive oil and any leftover spice mix.
Sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Let leftovers cool and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The filling stays creamy and reheats well. For meal prep, slice the chicken and portion with grains and veggies.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American