Why You’ll Love This Sundried Tomato, Spinach, and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Healthy and Hearty: Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and calcium, it’s a well-rounded, wholesome meal.
- Flavor Explosion: The sundried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that complements the creamy cheese and earthy spinach.
- Simple and Elegant: Despite looking gourmet, this dish is easy to prepare and cooks in under 40 minutes.
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking dish: To finish cooking the chicken in the oven.
- Sharp knife: For creating the pocket in the chicken.
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine: To secure the filling inside the chicken.
- Skillet: For searing the chicken.
Sundried Tomato, Spinach, and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
Indulge in the savory, cheesy goodness of this Sundried Tomato, Spinach, and Cheese Stuffed Chicken! Perfect for a special dinner or an easy yet impressive weeknight meal, this recipe combines juicy chicken with a deliciously flavorful filling. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
To make this dish, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
2. In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach, sundried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
3. Using a sharp knife, slice a pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
5. Fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared filling, pressing it gently to ensure it stays in place. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
7. Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Rest and Serve
8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks or twine. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Make it Ahead: Prepare the filling and stuff the chicken in advance, then refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Customize the Filling: Add chopped mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or swap mozzarella for feta cheese for a unique twist.
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overloading the filling to prevent it from spilling out during cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes! Thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it with the other filling ingredients.
Q2: Can I cook this entirely on the stovetop?
A: While baking ensures even cooking, you can cook it on the stovetop over low heat with a lid for about 15 minutes after searing.
Q3: What cheese works best in this recipe?
A: Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can use cheddar, gouda, or even a blend for extra flavor.
Conclusion: A Deliciously Satisfying Meal!
This Sundried Tomato, Spinach, and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a perfect way to elevate your dinner game. It’s flavorful, hearty, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!
Did you try this recipe? Don’t forget to share your feedback and photos with us. We love seeing your creations!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 18g
Enjoy every bite of this flavorful and elegant dish!
