Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Stuffed Chicken Breast is a flavorful and elegant dish featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with a delicious stuffing of cheese, spinach, and herbs. Baked to perfection or pan-seared for a crispy crust, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, tender chicken with a flavorful filling
• Versatile—can be stuffed with different ingredients
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep and reheats well
• Great for a low-carb or keto-friendly meal

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika

For the Filling:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Fresh spinach, chopped
• Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Garlic, minced
• Sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open them up like a book.
3. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, chopped spinach, shredded cheese, minced garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes (if using).
2. Stir until well combined.

3. Stuff the Chicken

1. Spoon the filling onto one side of each chicken breast.
2. Fold the other half over and secure with toothpicks if needed.

4. Cook the Chicken

• Oven Method: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
• Stovetop Method: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, then cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until done.

5. Serve

Remove toothpicks (if used) and serve warm with a side of vegetables, rice, or salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Swap: Use feta, Parmesan, or gouda instead of mozzarella.
• Meat Lovers’ Option: Add cooked bacon or ham to the filling.
• Mushroom-Stuffed: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Spicy Version: Mix red pepper flakes into the filling.
• Keto-Friendly: Serve with a low-carb side like roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked stuffed chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

What’s the best way to keep the stuffing from leaking out?

Use toothpicks to secure the chicken or wrap it in foil while baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the stuffed chicken in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).

What sides go well with stuffed chicken?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a fresh salad pair well.

Can I add breadcrumbs to the filling?

Yes, breadcrumbs can add texture, but they are optional.

How do I add more flavor to the chicken?

Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before stuffing.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best way to slice the chicken for stuffing?

Use a sharp knife and slice carefully to avoid cutting through completely.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and drain well before adding to the filling.

Conclusion

Stuffed Chicken Breast is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a creamy, cheesy filling and juicy chicken, this meal is sure to impress. Whether baked or pan-seared, it’s a delicious way to elevate your dinner. Try different fillings to make it your own and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!