Mediterranean Feta and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

This Mediterranean-inspired stuffed chicken dish features tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy, flavorful mixture of spinach, garlic, feta, and cream cheese. Seasoned with oregano and black pepper, it’s baked to perfection, resulting in a juicy, cheesy entrée that pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. It’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup crumbled feta cheese

¼ cup cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Toothpicks (for securing chicken)

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.

Prepare the Filling

In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and chopped spinach. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until spinach is wilted and garlic is fragrant.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

In a small bowl, mix sautéed spinach and garlic with feta cheese, cream cheese, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Prepare the Chicken

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.

Stuff each pocket with the spinach and feta mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Transfer seared chicken to the prepared baking dish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve

Remove toothpicks before serving.

Plate the stuffed chicken breasts and serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Tips

Even Cooking: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing to ensure uniform cooking.

Secure Filling: Use toothpicks to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking. Remove them before serving.

Searing First: Searing chicken in a hot skillet before baking helps lock in juices and creates a golden-brown exterior.

Cheese Balance: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the feta slightly or mix it with more cream cheese.

Resting: Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after baking to retain juices and make slicing easier.

Optional Flavor Boost: Brush the tops with a little olive oil and sprinkle extra oregano or paprika before baking.

Variations

Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil can enhance the Mediterranean flavor.

Vegetable Mix: Mix in roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.

Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese or shredded mozzarella instead of feta for a different texture and taste.

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or smoked paprika to the filling for mild heat.

Cooking Method: This can also be cooked entirely on the stovetop in a covered skillet over medium-low heat for about 15–20 minutes.

Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

Q&A

Q: Can I prepare these chicken breasts ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can stuff the chicken and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours before cooking. Avoid stuffing too far in advance to maintain freshness.

Q: Can I freeze stuffed chicken breasts?
A: Yes. Assemble the stuffed chicken and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

Q: Can I use other greens instead of spinach?
A: Absolutely. Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula work well. Be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based feta alternative to keep it creamy and flavorful.

Q: How can I make sure the chicken stays juicy?
A: Pound the chicken to even thickness, sear before baking, and avoid overcooking. Resting after baking also helps retain juices.

Nutrition

(per serving, serves 4) – approximate

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 38 g

Carbohydrates: 3 g

Fiber: 1 g

Sugar: 1 g

Fat: 18 g

Saturated Fat: 7 g

Sodium: 550 mg

Values may vary depending on the exact brands and amounts of cheese and oil used.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Feta and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a flavorful, elegant, yet simple dish that brings a Mediterranean twist to your dinner table. The creamy feta and spinach filling pairs perfectly with tender, juicy chicken, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. With easy substitutions and variations, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to your taste and dietary preferences.