Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese

Name: Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Ideas

I absolutely love making stuffed chicken breast, especially with the delicious combination of spinach and cheese. It’s a meal that feels like a celebration but is actually easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Baking it allows the chicken to retain its juiciness while the flavors meld perfectly. On busy nights when I need something quick and satisfying, this is my go-to recipe. The result is a wholesome, decadent dish that never fails to impress.

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:57:37.237Z

When I first made this stuffed chicken breast, I wasn’t expecting it to become a household favorite. I decided to experiment with flavors I love, like spinach and a blend of cheeses. The first bite was a revelation – the creamy filling complemented the savory chicken perfectly. I realized that searing the chicken beforehand locks in moisture, and baking it allows the filling to bubble up to perfection.

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. I’ve tried various cheese combinations and even added sun-dried tomatoes for an extra kick. It’s a meal that can be dressed up for company or simplified for a cozy family dinner, making it one of my top recipes for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty chicken enveloping a flavorful filling
Creamy spinach and cheese blend bursting with flavor
Ideal for impressing guests or a comforting family meal

Choosing the Right Chicken Breasts

When preparing stuffed chicken breasts, selecting the right cut is crucial to achieving the desired texture and moisture. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and even in thickness. This ensures uniform cooking and a tender result. If you find that some of your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider butterflying them for more even cooking, resulting in a juicier end product.

For the best flavor, choose chicken breasts with good marbling. This can prevent the meat from drying out during cooking. If you can, use organic or free-range chicken, as it often has a richer flavor, adding depth to your stuffed dish.

Spinach and Cheese Filling Tips

The combination of spinach and cream cheese is key in this recipe, delivering a creamy, satisfying filling. Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened; this allows for easier blending with the spinach. If you forget to take it out in advance, a quick solution is to cut it into smaller pieces and microwave it for about 15-20 seconds. This makes it blend smoothly with the cheese.

You can customize the filling by adding different herbs. Fresh basil or dill can enhance the flavor profile significantly. For extra heat, consider adding red pepper flakes. It’s a great way to tailor the dish to your taste preferences or to match the seasonings you enjoy most.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

After baking, let your stuffed chicken breasts rest for about five minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing moisture and flavor. Pair the dish with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can add a delightful tang that cuts through the creaminess.

For variations, try swapping out the mozzarella for feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist, or use ricotta combined with parmesan for a different flavor dimension. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for added depth and acidity, making it a perfect dish for entertaining or casual family dinners.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you'll be set to create this delicious dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your stuffed chicken breast:

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. Mix in chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and combine with cream cheese and mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Chicken

Make a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, ensuring you don't cut all the way through. Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each pocket, securing with toothpicks if necessary.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each stuffed chicken breast for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks. Slice and enjoy with your choice of side dishes!

Enjoy your delicious stuffed chicken breast!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs such as basil or oregano in the filling. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

This stuffed chicken breast recipe can easily be made ahead of time. Prepare the filling and stuff the chicken breasts one day prior, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be baked directly from the fridge; just add an extra five minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent the chicken from drying out. This method keeps the leftovers moist while ensuring they are heated evenly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stuffed chicken breasts are drying out, consider checking the cooking temperature and time. Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). In the future, you might also consider brining your chicken breasts before cooking to retain moisture.

A common issue can be the filling oozing out during cooking. To prevent this, ensure that you seal the pockets securely with toothpicks and avoid overstuffing them. If you find the filling is too loose, adding a bit more cream cheese can help it hold together better inside the chicken.

Scaling Up the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Keeping the ratios the same, you can prepare a whole batch of stuffed chicken breasts. I recommend using a baking sheet instead of a dish for larger quantities to ensure even cooking and browning. Just remember that with more chicken in the oven, the cooking time may increase slightly.

If you're scaling up, you might also want to create a larger batch of filling in one go. Consider preparing extra filling to use in other dishes, such as pasta or stuffed bell peppers, to minimize waste and add versatility to your meal prep!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative if you prefer.

→ How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff and sear the chicken ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and bake when you’re ready to serve.