Description
This Spinach Herb Baked Chicken features juicy boneless chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful mixture of fresh spinach, feta, cream cheese, and Parmesan, seasoned with herbs and spices. Seared to a golden brown before baking, this dish offers a deliciously creamy and savory experience perfect for a healthy family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Spinach Herb Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready to bake the chicken once it is prepared.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a creamy, herbaceous filling.
- Make Chicken Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut horizontally through the thickest part of each chicken breast to form a pocket. Be cautious not to cut all the way through to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the prepared spinach and cheese mixture into each chicken pocket. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed to prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving. Remove toothpicks if used, and enjoy your delicious baked stuffed chicken breasts.
Notes
- Make sure not to overstuff the chicken breasts to avoid the filling spilling out during cooking.
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs for dried ones or add extra seasonings to suit your taste.
- If you prefer, the chicken can be baked without searing, but searing adds a nice color and flavor.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
