Stuffed Chicken Breast Dinner
Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Favorites
Deliciously stuffed chicken breasts, perfect for a cozy dinner.
This stuffed chicken breast dinner is not only flavorful but also elegant enough to impress your guests. The combination of savory cheese and herbs creates a delightful filling that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken breasts bursting with flavor
- Hearty stuffing that pairs perfectly with chicken
- Easy to prepare for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
A Perfect Dinner for Any Occasion
Stuffed chicken breasts are not only delicious but also remarkably versatile, making them an excellent choice for any dinner occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or simply looking for a comforting meal on a weeknight, this recipe fits the bill. The combination of juicy chicken and flavorful stuffing will impress your guests and satisfy your family alike.
The beauty of stuffed chicken breasts lies in their ability to hold a variety of flavors. You can customize the stuffing to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For example, try adding some herbs or spices to elevate the flavor profile even further. With this recipe as your base, the possibilities are endless!
Health Benefits of Spinach and Cheese
This stuffed chicken recipe features spinach, a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium, spinach is a fantastic addition to any meal. Not only does it enhance the nutritional value of the dish, but it also adds a beautiful color and texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
Cream cheese and mozzarella bring a creamy richness to the dish while providing a hearty source of protein and calcium. Together, these ingredients not only contribute to the flavor but also help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Balancing indulgence with nutrition is key, and this recipe achieves just that!
Choosing the Right Side Dishes
When it comes to serving stuffed chicken breasts, choosing the right sides can elevate your meal even more. Consider pairing this dish with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or even a flavorful quinoa pilaf. These options will complement the richness of the chicken while adding color and variety to your plate.
If you prefer a more comforting approach, creamy mashed potatoes or a savory risotto can be fantastic choices as well. Just remember to keep the sides balanced so that they enhance, rather than overshadow, the star of the meal: the delicious stuffed chicken.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stuff the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast and fill it with the cheese and spinach mixture.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the stuffed chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy your delicious stuffed chicken breast dinner!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this delightful stuffed chicken dinner, storing them properly is essential to maintain flavor and texture. Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them in the oven is the best method to restore their juiciness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the chicken for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be aware that the texture may not be as pleasing.
Variations to Try
One of the best aspects of this stuffed chicken breast recipe is its adaptability. Consider experimenting with different fillings based on your preferences. For instance, you could add cooked bacon, artichokes, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. Each variation can bring a unique twist to the dish.
Additionally, feel free to swap out the sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers or olives. These changes can add new flavors while still keeping the dish delicious and satisfying. The key is to balance the flavors so that the stuffing complements the chicken beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
→ What sides go well with stuffed chicken?
Roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad are great options.
→ Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and stuffing a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
→ What if I don't have mozzarella cheese?
You can substitute it with any cheese of your choice, like cheddar or feta.
Stuffed Chicken Breast Dinner
Deliciously stuffed chicken breasts, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Created by: June Weatherby
Recipe Type: Simple Comfort Food Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast and fill it with the cheese and spinach mixture.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the stuffed chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 38g