Creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Embark on a culinary journey with this irresistible Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe, a dish that effortlessly combines elegance with incredible flavor. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, perfectly seasoned and generously filled with a creamy, savory blend of spinach and gooey melted cheese. This culinary masterpiece is designed to captivate your palate, offering a delightful contrast of textures and a symphony of rich tastes in every bite. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or aiming to impress guests at an elegant gathering, this recipe promises to deliver a truly memorable dining experience.

Golden-brown, keto-friendly spinach cream cheese stuffed chicken breasts on a rustic brown plate, garnished with fresh herbs
A delicious meal perfect for any occasion.

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This recipe was originally published in November 2016 and has been thoroughly updated with enhanced instructions, tips, and photos to ensure your success in the kitchen.

Table of Contents

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen. Here’s why it will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation:

  • Unforgettable Flavor Fusion: The star of this dish is undoubtedly the rich, creamy, and tangy cream cheese perfectly balanced with the earthy, vibrant notes of spinach. This indulgent filling creates an explosion of flavor that complements the lean chicken, making every bite a delight. A hint of garlic and onion powder enhances this savory core, ensuring a truly gourmet taste.
  • Delightful Texture Contrast: Experience the best of both worlds with the tender, juicy chicken breast giving way to a luxuriously soft and molten cheese and spinach center. This fantastic interplay of textures keeps each mouthful exciting and incredibly satisfying.
  • Endless Customization Options: This recipe serves as a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with various herbs like dill or chives, additional spices for a kick, or other ingredients in the stuffing mixture to tailor it to your personal preferences and dietary needs. It’s easy to make it your own!
  • Gourmet Appeal, Simple Preparation: Despite its sophisticated presentation and rich flavors, this dish is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. With clear, step-by-step instructions, even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special but don’t have endless time.
  • A Healthier, Low-Carb Choice: For those mindful of their diet, this low-carb stuffed chicken breast offers a healthier alternative to many heavier, carbohydrate-rich meals. Featuring lean protein from the chicken and nutrient-dense spinach, it seamlessly fits into a balanced eating plan, including keto-friendly lifestyles. It’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or health.
Fresh ingredients laid out for making keto low carb stuffed chicken breasts, including raw chicken, spinach, cream cheese, and spices.
Gathering all your ingredients before cooking makes the process smooth.

Choosing the Perfect Chicken

For this delightful Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, the choice of chicken is crucial for both ease of preparation and optimal results. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are undoubtedly the best option. Their naturally thick and uniform shape provides an ideal canvas for stuffing, allowing you to create a generous pocket for the savory filling. This cut of chicken is also wonderfully lean, cooks evenly, and takes on flavors beautifully, ensuring a tender and juicy final product that perfectly complements the creamy spinach and cheese filling. When selecting your chicken breasts, aim for larger, thicker pieces, as these are much easier to butterfly and stuff without tearing.

Fresh or Frozen Spinach: Which to Use?

When preparing your Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, you have the flexibility to use either fresh or frozen spinach. Both options have distinct advantages, and with a little preparation, either can yield fantastic results.

  • Fresh Spinach: Using fresh spinach offers a vibrant, slightly milder flavor and a more delicate texture. To incorporate fresh spinach into your stuffing, it’s essential to wilt it down first. This can be achieved by quickly sautéing it in a pan with a touch of olive oil or blanching it in boiling water for a minute or two. Wilting significantly reduces its volume and helps you control the moisture content more effectively. After wilting, squeeze out any excess water thoroughly to prevent a watery filling that could make your chicken soggy.
  • Frozen Spinach: For ultimate convenience, frozen spinach is an excellent choice. It comes pre-chopped, saving you valuable preparation time. However, frozen spinach contains a considerable amount of water. To ensure your stuffing remains creamy and doesn’t thin out, it is absolutely critical to thaw the spinach completely and then squeeze out every last drop of excess moisture. You can do this by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and wringing it out firmly. Removing this excess liquid is the key to a rich, concentrated spinach flavor and a perfectly textured filling.

Regardless of whether you choose fresh or frozen, the goal is always to have well-drained spinach for your filling. This attention to detail will ensure your Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast turns out perfectly, with a robust flavor and an ideal creamy consistency.

Finely chopped fresh spinach on a wooden cutting board, ready for the stuffing.
Properly preparing your spinach is key for a delicious filling.

Mastering the Butterfly Cut for Chicken

Creating a perfect pocket for your creamy spinach and cheese filling is crucial for a successful Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast. The butterfly cut, also known as butterflying, allows you to create a larger, more even surface area for stuffing and ensures the chicken cooks uniformly. Here’s a detailed guide to master this technique:

  1. Prepare Your Work Surface: Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breast on a clean, flat cutting board. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed if you’re using frozen poultry. Pat it dry with paper towels; this helps with grip and prevents slipping.
  2. Position the Chicken: Orient the chicken breast so its thicker side faces your non-dominant hand. This gives you better control as you begin to slice.
  3. Initiate the Cut: Using a very sharp chef’s knife or a boning knife, begin cutting horizontally into the thickest part of the chicken breast. Keep your knife parallel to the cutting board. Make sure to cut about halfway through the thickness of the breast. The most important tip here is to be deliberate and steady, and most importantly, do not cut all the way through to the other side. You want to leave about half an inch connected along one edge, acting as a hinge.
  4. Open and Flatten: Gently open the chicken breast like a book. Lift the top, thicker piece (the one you just sliced) while keeping the bottom half flat against the cutting board. You should now have a larger, flatter piece of chicken that resembles a butterfly shape.
  5. Even Out the Thickness: To ensure even cooking and easier stuffing, you’ll want to flatten the breast further. You can do this by gently pressing down with the palm of your hand. For a more uniform thickness, place a piece of plastic wrap over the chicken and use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to pound it to an even half-inch thickness. This step is vital for preventing one part of the chicken from drying out while another is still cooking, and it also makes rolling or folding the stuffed chicken much simpler.

With this technique, you’ll create the ideal pocket for your delicious spinach and cream cheese filling, setting the stage for a perfectly cooked and incredibly flavorful meal.

Raw chicken breasts, expertly butterflied and ready for stuffing, laid out on parchment paper on a baking sheet.
Properly butterflied chicken breasts are the foundation of this dish.

Crafting Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

Making this savory Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is simpler than you might think, yet yields a dish that tastes incredibly gourmet. The key lies in preparing the chicken and assembling the flavorful filling before baking it to golden perfection. Detailed measurements and complete instructions for each step are provided in the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this post, ensuring you have all the information you need for a successful culinary adventure.

  • Prepare the Chicken: Begin by carefully butterflying each chicken breast. This creates a large, even pocket for the stuffing. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may also choose to make a deep incision to form a pocket, rather than fully butterflying them. Ensure they are patted dry to help the seasoning adhere and for better browning.
  • Create the Creamy Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the thoroughly drained and finely chopped spinach. Add your grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, along with any desired herbs or additional seasonings. Mix everything until it’s well incorporated and evenly distributed. The consistency should be thick and spreadable.
  • Generously Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the rich cream cheese and spinach mixture into the pocket of each butterflied chicken breast. Be mindful not to overstuff, as some filling might escape during baking. However, a little spillage is often a welcome, crispy bonus! Secure the edges of the chicken with toothpicks if needed, or simply fold the chicken over the filling.
  • Season for Flavor: Drizzle a little olive oil over the exterior of the stuffed chicken breasts. Then, sprinkle generously with a blend of onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This seasoning not only adds a beautiful crust but also deepens the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the seasoned, stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely divine!

Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a succulent and satisfying Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast.

A bowl filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, spinach, and grated cheddar, ready to be used as stuffing.
The creamy, flavorful stuffing is the heart of this dish.
Raw chicken breasts, each with a neat side pocket cut, ready to be filled with the spinach cream cheese mixture.
Preparing the chicken with a perfect pocket for the stuffing.

Baking to Perfection: Cook Time and Temperature

Achieving perfectly cooked, juicy Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast requires attention to cook time and oven temperature. While a general guideline is provided, it’s important to remember that various factors can influence how long your chicken needs to bake.

Typically, these stuffed chicken breasts bake beautifully in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20-30 minutes. However, the exact timing can fluctuate based on several elements:

  • Chicken Breast Thickness and Size: Thicker or larger chicken breasts will naturally require more time in the oven to cook all the way through. Smaller or thinner breasts will cook faster. It’s always better to adjust your cooking time based on the specific size of the chicken you are using.
  • Oven Calibration: Ovens can vary slightly in temperature, even if set to the same degree. An oven thermometer can help you verify your oven’s accuracy.
  • Stuffing Temperature: If your stuffing ingredients (especially the cream cheese) are very cold, it might slightly extend the cooking time as the chicken and filling need to come up to temperature together.

To ensure your chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked without drying out, relying on visual cues alone isn’t enough. The most accurate way to determine doneness is by checking the internal temperature, which we’ll discuss next.

Four raw keto low carb stuffed chicken breasts, seasoned and ready for baking on a parchment-lined sheet.
Ready for the oven!

Ensuring Doneness: How to Tell When it’s Finished Cooking

Serving perfectly cooked Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is key to its enjoyment. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough, while undercooked chicken poses a food safety risk. Here’s how to confidently determine when your stuffed chicken is ready to come out of the oven:

  • The Gold Standard: Internal Temperature: This is by far the most reliable method. Use an instant-read meat thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the stuffed chicken breast, making sure not to touch the filling (as cheese heats differently than meat). The chicken is safely cooked when it registers an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria are destroyed, and your chicken will be juicy and tender.
  • Clear Juices: While not as accurate as a thermometer, observing the juices can offer a good secondary indicator. Pierce the thickest part of the chicken with a fork or knife. If the juices that run out are clear and there’s no pinkness visible, it’s a strong sign that your chicken is likely done. If the juices are cloudy or still show a hint of pink, continue cooking and re-check the temperature.
  • Firmness and Texture: Gently press on the thickest part of the stuffed chicken breast with your finger or tongs. Cooked chicken will feel firm to the touch with a slight give, but it won’t feel squishy or raw. Overcooked chicken will feel very hard and dry, so avoid that extreme.

For more detailed information on poultry safety and internal temperatures, you can learn more about The Right Internal Temperature For Chicken here.

A serving of keto low carb spinach cream cheese stuffed chicken breast on a brown plate, showcasing the creamy filling.
The perfect cross-section reveals the delicious filling.

The Cheese Factor: Pre-Shredded vs. Block Cheese

For the ultimate creamy and melt-in-your-mouth filling in your Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, the type of cheese you use—and how you prepare it—makes a significant difference. While pre-shredded cheese offers convenience, I strongly recommend taking the extra step to grate your cheese from a block.

Here’s why:

  • Anti-Caking Agents: Most pre-shredded cheeses are coated with anti-caking agents such as potato starch, cellulose, or natamycin. These substances are added to prevent the cheese from clumping together in the bag and to extend its shelf life.
  • Impact on Melt and Texture: Unfortunately, these coatings interfere with the cheese’s ability to melt smoothly and evenly. When heated, pre-shredded cheese often becomes grainy, doesn’t fully incorporate, and can result in a less desirable, sometimes chalky, texture in your dishes. This is especially true in a creamy filling where smoothness is key.
  • Superior Melting Quality: When you grate cheese fresh from a block, it contains no additives or preservatives. This means that when it melts, it does so beautifully, becoming velvety, gooey, and rich. This natural melting quality is essential for achieving the perfect consistency and flavor in your Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast filling. The difference in taste and texture is truly noticeable, elevating your dish from good to exceptional.

So, while it might save you a minute or two, opt for block cheese and grate it yourself. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!

Another enticing view of keto low carb stuffed chicken breasts on a brown plate, ready to be served.
Perfectly golden and ready to be enjoyed.

Creative Twists: Substitution Ideas and Add-Ins

While the classic Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is undeniably delicious, this recipe is incredibly versatile, inviting you to experiment with various additions and substitutions to suit your taste preferences or to utilize ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fantastic ideas to customize your stuffed chicken:

  • Mushrooms: Sauté finely diced mushrooms (cremini or button work well) until their moisture is released, then add them to the spinach mixture for an extra layer of umami and earthiness.
  • Bacon: Cook and crumble crispy bacon, then fold it into the cream cheese and spinach filling. The smoky, salty crunch of bacon perfectly complements the creamy texture.
  • Artichokes: Chopped canned or jarred artichoke hearts (ensure they are well-drained) add a tangy, slightly briny flavor that pairs wonderfully with spinach and cheese.
  • Sundried Tomatoes: For a burst of concentrated sweet-tart flavor, chop oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes and mix them into the filling. They add a beautiful color and Mediterranean flair.
  • Nuts (Almonds/Pine Nuts): To introduce a subtle crunch and nutty flavor, add a small amount of finely chopped toasted almonds or pine nuts to the stuffing.
  • Cranberries: A handful of dried cranberries can add a surprising pop of sweetness and tartness, especially appealing during holiday seasons or if you enjoy a fruitier note.
  • Onions/Shallots: Sautéed finely minced onions or shallots until translucent before adding them to the filling will deepen the savory base and add aromatic complexity.
  • Black Beans: For a heartier, more Southwestern-inspired twist, a small amount of rinsed and drained black beans can be added.
  • Bell Peppers: Finely diced and sautéed red or yellow bell peppers bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the stuffing.
  • Alternative Cheeses: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar and mozzarella!
    • Goat Cheese: Offers a distinct tangy, earthy flavor and a wonderfully creamy texture.
    • Feta: Provides a salty, briny kick and a crumbly texture.
    • Ricotta Cheese: Can be used in place of or in addition to cream cheese for an even lighter, fluffier filling.
    • Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan in the mix adds a sharp, salty depth.
  • Leafy Greens (Kale): If you’re a fan of kale, you can substitute or combine it with spinach. Just be sure to destem and finely chop the kale, then sauté it until tender before mixing.
  • Herbs & Spices: Fresh dill, chives, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat can further enhance the flavor profile.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your signature Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe! Just remember to consider the moisture content of any additions and adjust accordingly.

Three servings of keto low carb stuffed chicken breasts on a brown plate, ready for a family meal.
A wholesome and satisfying meal for everyone.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the great things about this Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is how well it holds up as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep. Properly storing and reheating ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness days later.

How to Store Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, any leftover stuffed chicken breast should be transferred to an airtight container. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out. Stored correctly in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and delicious for 3-4 days.

How to Reheat

To preserve the moisture and flavor of your stuffed chicken, avoid overheating. Here are the best methods:

  • Oven: This is often the best method for retaining moisture and ensuring even heating. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through.
  • Air Fryer: For a crispier exterior, reheat in an air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until heated through. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-drying.
  • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Place the stuffed chicken breast in the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until warm. The lid helps to trap moisture and heat evenly.
  • Microwave: While convenient, microwaves can be tricky as they tend to heat unevenly and can easily dry out chicken, making it tough or rubbery. If using a microwave, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely (a damp paper towel helps), and heat on 50-70% power in short intervals (1-2 minutes) checking the temperature frequently. This will help prevent the chicken from becoming tough.

Always ensure leftovers are reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Freezing for Future Enjoyment

Preparing a batch of Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast to freeze for later is an excellent strategy for quick, healthy meals on busy days. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Freezing Cooked Chicken: Allow the cooked stuffed chicken breasts to cool completely. Wrap each individual breast tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date. Frozen cooked chicken will maintain its quality for 2-3 months.
  • Defrosting: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen chicken breasts to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the chicken’s texture and moisture.
  • Reheating from Frozen (or partially frozen): If you’re short on time and need to reheat from a partially frozen state, you can do so in the oven, increasing the cooking time as needed, typically 30-45 minutes at 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s covered to prevent drying and reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.

Having these delicious stuffed chicken breasts ready in your freezer means a gourmet meal is just a reheat away!

A close-up of a perfectly cooked keto low carb stuffed chicken breast, showing the golden exterior and juicy interior, on a wooden board.
The ultimate comfort food, low carb and delicious.

Perfect Pairings: Side Dishes

To complete your meal, pair your rich and savory Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with a complementary side dish. Here are some fantastic options that balance the flavors and textures of the main course:

  • Air Fryer Green Beans: A quick and healthy side that offers a crisp texture and vibrant green color, contrasting beautifully with the creamy chicken.
  • Southern Cinnamon Fried Apples: For a touch of comforting sweetness, these fried apples provide a lovely counterpoint to the savory chicken, adding a warm, autumnal flavor.
  • Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon: If you’re looking for a more indulgent side, these creamy, cheesy potatoes with crispy bacon bits make for a decadent pairing that’s sure to impress.
  • Southern Soul Food Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes offer a smooth, comforting base that soaks up any delicious juices from the chicken. Buttermilk adds a subtle tang.
  • Southern Soul Food Creamed Corn: Sweet and creamy, this side dish provides a comforting sweetness and another layer of richness that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
  • Simple Roasted Asparagus: A light and healthy option, roasted asparagus spears with a squeeze of lemon add freshness and a slight bitterness that cleanses the palate.
  • Quinoa or Brown Rice Pilaf: For a wholesome grain side, a flavorful pilaf can absorb the chicken’s juices and add a satisfying chewiness.
  • Garden Salad with Vinaigrette: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the chicken and cheese.

More Delectable Chicken Dinner Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed this Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, you’ll love exploring other chicken recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Chicken is a versatile protein that can be transformed into countless delicious meals. Here are a few more dinner ideas to inspire your next culinary creation:

  • Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich: Crispy, juicy, and quick to make, this sandwich is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
  • Dry Rub Chicken Wings: Flavorful and addictive, these wings are great for appetizers, game day, or a fun family meal.
  • Rotisserie Chicken Enchiladas: A comforting and hearty dish that uses pre-cooked chicken for an easy weeknight meal.
  • Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken Fajitas: Tender, seasoned chicken and peppers cooked effortlessly in your slow cooker, perfect for flavorful fajitas.
  • Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken: A classic for a reason, this simple yet elegant dish features chicken roasted with bright lemon and fragrant herbs for a wholesome meal.
  • One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Vegetables: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this recipe combines chicken with your favorite seasonal vegetables, all roasted on a single sheet pan.
Keto low carb stuffed chicken breasts on a wooden cutting board, showcasing the delicious meal.

Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

By Brandi Crawford

This Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is delightfully savory and bursting with flavor. This indulgent dish marries the tenderness of chicken breast with the richness of gooey melted cheese, creating the best combo of tastes and textures. This meal is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings.

5 from 42 votes

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Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Total Time 35 mins

Course Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

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Equipment

  • Parchment Paper
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Sharp Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  • 20-25 oz skinless chicken breasts (approximately 2 large chicken breasts)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup finely chopped spinach (fresh, wilted and squeezed dry, or frozen, thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry)
  • 2 oz cream cheese (softened at room temperature, or microwaved for 15-20 seconds)
  • cup grated cheddar cheese
  • cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken breasts.
  3. Place each chicken breast on a clean flat surface. Using a sharp knife, hold the chicken breast flat on the cutting board with the thicker side facing your non-dominant hand. With your knife parallel to the cutting board, start cutting into the thickest part of the chicken breast horizontally, about halfway through its thickness. Be careful not to cut all the way through, leaving about half an inch connected along one edge.
  4. Open the chicken breast like a book by gently lifting the top piece (the thicker side) that’s still connected while keeping the bottom side flat against the cutting board. It should now resemble a butterfly shape. To ensure even thickness for cooking and easier stuffing, gently flatten the breast with your hands, a meat mallet, or a rolling pin.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine the thoroughly squeezed shredded spinach, softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, and grated mozzarella cheese. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and form a thick, creamy filling.
  6. Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture generously into the pocket of each butterflied chicken breast. You can secure the open edge with a toothpick if desired to keep the filling enclosed.
  7. Season the exterior of the stuffed chicken breasts evenly with the onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  8. Place the seasoned, stuffed chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the thickest part of each chicken breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts and oven calibration.
  9. Once cooked, remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then cut each breast in half (if desired) and serve immediately.

Notes

Larger and thicker chicken breasts are generally easier to butterfly and stuff, as they provide a more substantial pocket for the filling. When purchasing, try to find chicken breasts that are relatively uniform in size.

Depending on the size of your chicken breasts and how generously you stuff them, some filling may spill out while baking. Don’t worry, this is normal and often creates delicious, crispy cheese bits that are wonderful to eat alongside the chicken. If you prefer to minimize spillage, be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts.

When using spinach, whether fresh or frozen, the most important step is to thoroughly remove excess moisture. For fresh spinach, wilt it first (by sautéing or blanching) then squeeze dry. For frozen spinach, thaw completely and then wring out all the water using a clean kitchen towel. This prevents a watery filling and ensures a rich, concentrated flavor.

Sliced spinach on a cutting board, emphasizing the importance of preparation.
Properly prepared spinach ensures the best texture for your filling.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 6oz

Calories: 320kcal

Carbohydrates: 1g

Protein: 40g

Fat: 18g

Nutrition Data Disclaimer

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

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