Description
A savory and healthy stuffed chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, seared to golden perfection and finished by baking for a juicy, satisfying main dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks (to secure filling)
Stuffing
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken after searing.
- Prepare Chicken Breast Pockets: Carefully cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through, creating space for the stuffing.
- Mix Stuffing Ingredients: In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to blend all flavors.
- Stuff Chicken Breasts: Fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared spinach mixture and secure with toothpicks to keep the filling intact during cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown to lock in flavors.
- Bake Stuffed Chicken: Transfer seared chicken breasts to a butter-greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove toothpicks carefully before serving the juicy, stuffed chicken breasts.
Notes
- Make sure not to cut all the way through the chicken breasts when making pockets to prevent the stuffing from leaking.
- Using fresh spinach adds a nice texture and flavor; if using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain excess water.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or salad for a complete meal.
