Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cream Cheese and Spinach

Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cream Cheese and Spinach is a flavorful and elegant main course featuring juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts filled with a creamy, garlicky spinach mixture. Baked until golden and melty, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a delicious, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed chicken breast recipe is creamy, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your dinner menu:

• Juicy chicken with a rich, creamy spinach filling
• Great for keto, low-carb, and gluten-free diets
• Easy to prepare in under an hour
• Looks impressive but uses simple ingredients
• Pairs beautifully with vegetables, potatoes, or a salad

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Cream cheese, softened
• Fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• Garlic, minced
• Shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika (optional, for color)
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil and sauté spinach and garlic for 1–2 minutes, just until wilted. Remove from heat.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella or Parmesan. Season with a little salt and pepper.
4. Cut a horizontal pocket in each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
5. Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture and secure with toothpicks.
6. Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
7. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken on both sides until golden (about 3–4 minutes per side).
8. Transfer skillet to oven (or place chicken in a baking dish) and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add sun-dried tomatoes: Mix chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for a tangy kick.
• Use frozen spinach: Thaw, drain, and squeeze dry before mixing into the cream cheese.
• Add herbs: Stir in chopped basil, parsley, or thyme to boost flavor.
• Bacon-wrapped: Wrap each breast in bacon before baking for extra flavor and crispiness.
• Low-fat option: Use low-fat cream cheese and part-skim mozzarella for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in a 325°F oven or microwave in short bursts until warmed through.
Not ideal for freezing once baked, but you can prep and freeze the uncooked stuffed breasts for later use.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before mixing it into the filling.

What’s the best way to stuff the chicken?

Use a sharp knife to create a deep pocket from the thick side of the breast, keeping the sides intact.

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Secure the open edge with toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine before cooking.

Can I cook this on the stovetop only?

It’s best to finish in the oven to ensure even cooking, but you can cover and simmer on low until done if needed.

What cheese works best?

Mozzarella melts well, while Parmesan adds a sharper flavor. A combo of both works beautifully.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, but you’ll need to roll them with the filling inside and secure with toothpicks or skewers.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in protein and fat—perfect for a keto or low-carb diet.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely—assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What should I serve with stuffed chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a side salad all make great pairings.

How do I know when it’s done?

Use a meat thermometer—the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cream Cheese and Spinach is a creamy, savory dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to make yet elegant enough to feel like a treat. With a gooey, garlicky center and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s the kind of meal everyone will request again and again.

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