Creamy Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Bake
This Creamy Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Bake is a rich, flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy mixture of spinach, cheese, and garlic. Baked to perfection, this meal is a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. It’s great for a comforting dinner and pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Spinach & Cheese Filling:
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup ricotta cheese (or cream cheese for extra creaminess)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Sauce
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
¼ cup chicken broth
¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut a deep pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.
Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Make the Spinach & Cheese Filling:
In a bowl, mix chopped spinach, ricotta (or cream cheese), mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
Stir until well combined.
3. Stuff the Chicken:
Spoon the spinach-cheese mixture into each chicken breast.
Secure with toothpicks if needed to hold the filling inside.
4. Sear the Chicken (Optional for Extra Flavor):
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Sear the chicken for 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to the oven (or use a baking dish if not using an oven-safe pan).
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Prepare the Creamy Sauce (Optional):
While the chicken bakes, heat a small saucepan over medium heat.
Add heavy cream, chicken broth, mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring until smooth.
7. Serve & Garnish:
Remove chicken from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Drizzle with the creamy sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~400
Protein: ~45g
Carbohydrates: ~4g
Fiber: ~1g
Fats: ~22g
Sodium: ~550mg
Cook & Prep Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Notes & Tips
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut milk for the sauce.
Make it Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a side salad.