Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese

Name: Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely adore this Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese! The first time I made it, I was amazed at how easily the flavors meld together, creating a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant spinach makes every bite a satisfying experience. Plus, it's surprisingly simple to prepare, so it often finds its way onto our dinner table when we're craving something special yet manageable. This dish has quickly become a favorite in our household!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:13:37.624Z

When I first experimented with stuffing chicken breasts, I was in search of something that felt both comforting and gourmet. I stumbled upon the idea of combining spinach and cheese, and it transformed the dish into something extraordinary. Each time I prepare this, I marvel at how the creamy filling complements the juicy chicken, creating a fantastic balance of flavors.

One tip I’ve learned is to ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and ensures that the flavorful filling stays snug inside without leaking out. It's details like this that elevate a good dish to great!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken packed with rich flavors
Creamy spinach and cheese filling that oozes delight
Quick and easy enough for weeknight dinners

      

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for this stuffed chicken breast features a harmonious blend of creamy cheeses, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic. Cream cheese serves as the base, contributing a luxurious texture that holds the other ingredients together well. I recommend ensuring your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing; this prevents lumps and allows for a smoother filling that spreads easily into the chicken pockets. Don’t skimp on seasoning—salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning enhance every bite, balancing the creaminess with vibrant flavors.

Using fresh spinach in this recipe not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a delightful texture. When cooked, spinach wilts down significantly, releasing its moisture, which infuses the chicken with flavor. However, you want to ensure that it’s drained well before mixing it into the filling. This prevents the filling from being too watery, which could compromise the stuffing's integrity. If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach can be used after it has been thoroughly thawed and drained.

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Searing the chicken before baking is a key step for developing flavor and locking in juices. Heat your skillet over medium heat; this temperature allows for a nice browning without overcooking the chicken. Use a little olive oil to prevent sticking. You’re aiming for a golden crust on each side, typically around 5 minutes per side. Once you add the paprika to the baking dish, it not only provides flavor but also a beautiful color to the dish as it bakes.

To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The ideal internal temperature for chicken breast is 165°F (75°C). If the chicken is browning too quickly in the oven, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to cook through. Resting the chicken after baking is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice juicy. I recommend letting it sit for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for this flavorful dish!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Once you have everything ready, the cooking can begin!

Instructions

Let's get started with cooking these delicious stuffed chicken breasts!

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket generously with the prepared spinach and cheese filling.

Bake the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and sprinkle with paprika. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite moist and flavorful. Enjoy your stuffed chicken breast with a side of your choice!

Now you're ready to enjoy a homemade feast!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or herbs into the cheese mixture. You can also use different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Stuffed Chicken Breast pairs wonderfully with light sides that can balance its richness. Consider serving it alongside a fresh mixed greens salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creamy filling. Additionally, roasted vegetables or even a simple garlic mashed potato offer great texture contrasts and are delightful complements to the dish.

For a heartier meal, serve the chicken with a bed of quinoa or wild rice. These grains soak up any juices from the chicken, enhancing each bite. You can also top the stuffed breasts with a homemade tomato sauce or a basil pesto for an Italian twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the beauties of this recipe is that you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance. Assemble and stuff the chicken, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together more deeply as it marinates in the fridge.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep it moist, or microwave it on a lower power setting to prevent the chicken from drying out. It’s perfect for lunch the next day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the cheese filling to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I serve with stuffed chicken breasts?

These chicken breasts pair well with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the chicken breasts a few hours in advance, then bake them just before serving.

→ What should I do if the filling spills out during cooking?

Don’t worry too much; it can happen. Just keep an eye on the cooking pan and scrape any delicious filling back onto the chicken before serving.