Easy Cream Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Tender chicken breasts hide a delightful cream cheese and spinach stuffing that bursts with flavor.

Packed with creamy, vibrant ingredients, this dish promises a mouthwatering experience for dinner.

The combination of rich cream cheese and earthy spinach creates a stunning filling that elevates each bite.

Succulent chicken becomes the perfect vessel for this decadent mixture, offering a protein-packed meal that feels both indulgent and nutritious.

Each slice reveals a beautiful swirl of green and white, making the plate visually appealing.

The recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive meal that looks like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese and Spinach Chicken Breasts

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that serves as the base for the stuffed recipe.
• Cream Cheese: Soft cheese that provides a rich and creamy filling.
• Spinach: Fresh green vegetable that adds nutrition and flavor to the stuffing.

• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds depth and complexity to the stuffing.
• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Paprika: Spice that adds a mild, sweet flavor and beautiful color to the chicken.

• Olive Oil: Helps create a golden, crispy exterior on the chicken breasts.
• Toothpicks or Kitchen String: Used to secure the stuffing inside the chicken pockets.

Preparation Steps for Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F to get ready for some delicious chicken magic.

Step 2: Mix The Creamy Filling

• Cream cheese
• Chopped spinach
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir everything until it’s smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Create Chicken Pockets

Take each chicken breast and carefully slice a deep pocket along the side.

Be gentle and don’t cut all the way through.

Step 4: Stuff The Chicken

Generously fill each chicken pocket with the creamy spinach mixture.

Pack it in nice and full.

Step 5: Secure The Stuffing

Use toothpicks or kitchen string to close the chicken pockets and keep the filling inside.

Step 6: Add Flavor Boost

Drizzle olive oil over each chicken breast and sprinkle with paprika for an extra flavor kick.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and slide into the preheated oven.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through.

Step 8: Rest And Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking.

This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite super juicy and delicious.

Tips for Cream Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken

• Create a precise pocket in chicken breasts without cutting completely through to maintain the stuffing's integrity.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Rub olive oil on chicken breasts to keep meat moist and enhance flavor during baking.
• Carefully extract toothpicks or kitchen string before serving to avoid accidental biting.
• Skip breadcrumbs and keep recipe naturally gluten-free, perfect for keto and low-carbohydrate diets.

Variations for Stuffed Chicken Breasts

• Keto-Friendly Version: Replace cream cheese with full-fat Greek yogurt and use almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs for coating. Swap spinach for low-carb alternatives like kale or Swiss chard.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast. Use dairy-free herb seasoning and coconut oil instead of olive oil.
• Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms or firm tofu. Stuff with the same cream cheese and spinach mixture, adjusting baking time to prevent overcooking.
• Protein-Packed Option: Add cooked quinoa or chopped cooked bacon to the cream cheese and spinach filling for extra protein and flavor complexity.

Serving Suggestions for Cream Cheese and Spinach Chicken

• Elegant Side Salad: Pair the stuffed chicken with a crisp mixed greens salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the creamy chicken.
• Colorful Veggie Companions: Roast colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots as a vibrant and nutritious side that complements the rich chicken.
• Fluffy Grain Base: Serve over herbed quinoa or wild rice pilaf to soak up the delicious cream cheese and spinach filling.
• Wine Pairing Delight: Enhance the meal with a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that cuts through the creamy texture.

Storage Recommendations for Stuffed Chicken Breasts

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Place chicken on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking. Stop when chicken is heated through.

FAQs

• How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?

Create a tight pocket by using a sharp knife and carefully slice horizontally through the thickest part of the chicken breast. Seal the edges with toothpicks or kitchen string to keep the filling secure and prevent spillage.

• Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze out excess moisture from the frozen spinach. Excess water can make the filling too runny and affect the overall texture of the dish.

• What if I don't have paprika?

No problem! You can substitute paprika with other dried herbs or spices like dried thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning. These alternatives will still add flavor to the chicken’s exterior.

Cream Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Essentials

• Boost Nutrition: Packed with protein from chicken and loaded with vitamins from spinach, this recipe delivers a powerhouse of healthy ingredients in one delicious dish.
• Wow Guests Easily: Looks fancy and complicated but actually super simple to prepare, making you appear like a gourmet chef without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Minimal prep work and straightforward cooking steps mean you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under an hour, perfect for busy families.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows for personal touches like swapping herbs, adding different cheeses, or incorporating other vegetables to match your taste preferences.

Cream Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

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4.6 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent cream cheese and spinach stuffed chicken breasts bring Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table with elegant simplicity. Creamy, herbaceous filling nestled inside juicy chicken creates a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Filling:

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Extras:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toothpicks or kitchen string for securing

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 375°F, ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
2. Mix softened cream cheese with finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, and seasonings until thoroughly combined.
3. Carefully slice a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, creating a deep cavity without piercing through the other side.
4. Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the cream cheese and spinach blend, ensuring complete coverage.
5. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and dust with paprika, massaging the seasoning into the surface.
7. Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish, keeping them slightly apart for even heat circulation.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
9. Remove from oven and allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes, which helps redistribute the juices and maintain moisture.

Notes

• Slice chicken breasts carefully to create an even pocket without cutting completely through, ensuring a perfect stuffing cavity.
• Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother filling consistency.
• Pat chicken breasts dry before stuffing to help seasoning adhere better and promote crispy exterior.
• Adjust baking time based on chicken breast thickness; use meat thermometer to check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 374 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg