Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spinach Stuffed Chicken is a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, protein-packed meal with a creamy, savory filling. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and spinach creates a rich and flavorful stuffing that pairs perfectly with the mild taste of the chicken breast. The recipe is simple, with only a few ingredients, and it bakes in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s low in carbs and can be served alongside a variety of vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Spinach Stuffed Chicken

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt (divided)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 ½ cups chopped fresh spinach
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle with olive oil or avocado oil. In a small bowl, combine paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Cut the chicken: Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through the chicken.
Make the spinach filling: In a small mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined.
Stuff the chicken: Spoon the spinach mixture into each chicken breast pocket, dividing the filling evenly between the four breasts.
Bake the chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add Bacon: For an extra layer of flavor, add crispy bacon bits to the spinach mixture.
Cheese Variations: Swap the Parmesan with mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy filling.
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicier version.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for a unique twist on the stuffing.
Low-Carb: Serve this stuffed chicken with a side of sautéed zucchini or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Spinach Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave it for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful alternative to chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can stuff the chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Can I freeze Spinach Stuffed Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before using it in the filling.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free version and use a dairy-free mayonnaise. Swap the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese option or nutritional yeast.

Can I make this with a different protein?

While chicken is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can also use pork chops, turkey breasts, or even large fish fillets like salmon or tilapia.

Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?

Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes to the spinach mixture for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños to the spinach mixture to give it a spicy kick.

How can I serve Spinach Stuffed Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or mashed cauliflower for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Spinach Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful, filling, and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a favorite. With its creamy spinach filling and perfectly seasoned chicken, it’s a satisfying meal that’s low on carbs and high on flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a great option that’s sure to please everyone!