Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is an easy, flavorful dinner made in just 30 minutes. This recipe features tender chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach and cheese filling, making it a perfect combination of delicious and nutritious. With only 6 simple ingredients, it’s ideal for a quick weeknight meal that’s also low carb and gluten-free. The addition of Roma tomato and melted mozzarella on top adds extra juiciness and flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (8 oz each)

• 2 tsp sea salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 6 oz fresh spinach (chopped)

• 2 oz cream cheese (softened)

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium Roma tomato (sliced thinly into 8 slices)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).

2. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Cut a slit horizontally in each chicken breast to create a pocket.

3. Steam the spinach in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or sauté on the stove for 3-5 minutes. Let it cool, then squeeze out excess water and set aside.

4. In a large bowl, mash together the softened cream cheese and minced garlic. Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

5. Add the spinach to the cream cheese mixture and stir until combined.

6. Stuff the spinach mixture into the chicken breasts and secure with toothpicks.

7. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.

8. Top each piece of chicken with 2 tomato slices and 2 tbsp of shredded mozzarella cheese.

9. Transfer to the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Optionally, broil for 1-3 minutes for more browning.

10. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrients

• Calories: 395 kcal

• Fat: 15.4g

• Protein: 57.3g

• Total Carbs: 4.3g

• Net Carbs: 3.1g

• Fiber: 1.2g

• Sugar: 1.4g

Why Choose Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast?

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With only six main ingredients (not counting salt and pepper), it’s quick to prepare yet packed with flavor. The spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition, while the cream cheese and mozzarella offer a rich, comforting texture. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, this recipe is an easy go-to that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.

One of the main reasons to love Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is its nutritional benefits. Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, making this a filling and healthy option. Combined with the spinach, which is high in vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants, the dish becomes a well-rounded meal. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb and gluten-free, which makes it a great option for those on special diets like keto or gluten-sensitive individuals.

Versatility of the Dish

One of the most appealing aspects of Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, you can add spices such as paprika, Italian seasoning, or even red pepper flakes for a kick. Alternatively, for a more Mediterranean twist, try adding feta cheese or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.

The dish can also be paired with a variety of sides, making it suitable for different occasions. For a lighter meal, serve it with a simple salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re craving something heartier, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions like family gatherings or holiday meals.

Cooking Tips for Success

To make sure your Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast turns out perfectly every time, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, when preparing the chicken, ensure that the breasts are of similar size to promote even cooking. If your chicken breasts are large, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. It’s also important to create a deep enough pocket for the spinach and cheese filling so it doesn’t spill out during cooking.

Another helpful tip is to use a meat thermometer. Since chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked, a meat thermometer will ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which is the safe cooking temperature for poultry. If you don’t have a thermometer, be sure to cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check for any signs of pink, as that indicates it’s not fully cooked.

While searing the chicken in a skillet helps develop a golden crust, be careful not to overcrowd the pan. This will allow each chicken breast to cook evenly and get that delicious golden-brown exterior. If you’re looking for an extra layer of flavor and color, you can even broil the chicken for the last few minutes of baking to get the cheese nice and bubbly.

Health Benefits of Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Spinach is a superfood packed with essential nutrients. A key benefit of adding spinach to your chicken breast filling is its ability to boost the dish’s nutritional value. Spinach is rich in vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in bone health and blood clotting. It’s also an excellent source of folate, a B-vitamin that helps the body produce and maintain new cells, making it especially important for pregnant women.

Beyond vitamins, spinach contains a wealth of minerals, including magnesium, potassium, and iron, which are important for maintaining good health. Iron is essential for creating red blood cells and preventing anemia, while magnesium supports muscle function and bone health. Additionally, spinach contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect the eyes from damage and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

The chicken breast itself is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, including muscles. It also helps maintain a healthy metabolism and supports immune function. When paired with the spinach filling, you get a well-balanced meal that’s high in protein and fiber, making it both filling and nourishing.

How to Serve Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

This dish is highly adaptable, and you can serve it with a variety of sides depending on what you’re in the mood for. For a lighter meal, pair it with a green salad, such as a Mediterranean or Caesar salad, which complements the rich flavors of the chicken and spinach filling. If you prefer a heartier side, consider mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

For a more Mediterranean-inspired meal, consider serving the chicken alongside roasted potatoes and a side of tzatziki sauce. The cool, creamy yogurt-based sauce pairs beautifully with the savory spinach and chicken, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

This dish can also be served with pasta or rice if you’re craving something more substantial. Zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice are excellent low-carb alternatives to traditional pasta, and they pair well with the stuffed chicken. A side of fresh, crusty bread can be perfect for mopping up any extra sauce or melted cheese.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a fantastic dish for meal prepping. You can prepare the chicken and stuff it in advance, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This can save time on busy days, as you’ll only need to sear and bake the chicken when you’re ready to eat. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave, and enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch.

For those who like to plan ahead, this dish also freezes well. You can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking them, and they’ll keep for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and proceed with the searing and baking steps as usual.

Conclusion

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the best of both flavors and nutrition. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier, sneak in some extra vegetables, or simply enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal, this recipe has something to offer. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. So next time you’re in the kitchen, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!