Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese

Name: Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Cozy Recipes

When I first made this Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese, I was surprised by how flavorful and satisfying it turned out. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy cheese stuffed inside tender chicken breast creates a dish that feels gourmet, yet it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner. I love how the juices from the chicken mix with the melted cheese, creating a delicious sauce that keeps every bite moist and packed with flavor, making it a favorite in our home.

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:41:36.258Z

Each time I prepare this dish, I'm reminded of the first time I served it at a family gathering. Everyone was raving about how juicy the chicken was and how the spinach and cheese filling added such a unique twist. I realized that using fresh spinach instead of frozen significantly alters the texture and flavor, giving the dish a delightful brightness and a heartiness that makes it truly stand out.

Another tip I've learned is to always use a meat thermometer. Cooking the chicken just to the right temperature ensures it stays juicy and flavorful. I aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This little trick has elevated my chicken dishes and minimizes dryness, ensuring every bite is delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with delightful flavors of fresh spinach and gooey cheese
A hearty main dish that pairs beautifully with a simple salad or rice
Impressive enough for entertaining yet easy enough for a weeknight meal

Perfecting the Flavor Profile

The blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan not only adds a creamy texture but also a rich depth of flavor that complements the vibrant spinach. The cream cheese acts as a binder, ensuring that the filling remains cohesive, while the mozzarella offers gooeyness that stretches beautifully with each bite. The addition of garlic is essential; it elevates the overall dish, infusing it with aromatic warmth that balances the richness of the cheeses.

If you want to experiment with flavors, try adding herbs like basil or oregano to the cheese mixture. This can introduce an Italian flair, while chopped sun-dried tomatoes can provide a tangy contrast to the creamy filling. Just keep in mind that adding wet ingredients may require slight adjustments in cooking time or the quantity of cheese used to prevent the filling from becoming too runny.

Cooking Techniques for Juicy Chicken

Achieving perfectly cooked chicken breasts can be tricky, as they can easily become dry if overcooked. To ensure optimal juiciness, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid guesswork. Additionally, consider searing the chicken in the skillet for a few minutes before transferring it to a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to finish cooking, ensuring even heat distribution and a beautifully golden crust.

After cooking, it's vital to let the chicken breasts rest for about 5 minutes. This short break allows the juices to redistribute, locking in moisture and enhancing the chicken's flavor. If you're in a hurry, tenting the chicken loosely with foil can help keep it warm without steaming the skin, which might otherwise lose its crispy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your stuffed chicken breast.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can start preparing the stuffing for the chicken breasts.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious stuffed chicken.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each chicken breast. Carefully stuff each pocket with the cheese and spinach mixture, securing it with toothpicks if necessary.

Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade stuffed chicken breast!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling. This will enhance the taste and aroma of your dish even more.

Serving Suggestions

This stuffed chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a light contrast, consider serving it alongside a simple leafy green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette, which cuts through the richness of the cheese and balances the meal. Alternatively, fluffy rice or quinoa absorbs any juices that spill from the chicken, adding depth to each bite and making for a wholesome dinner option.

For a heartier option, roasted vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or carrots work beautifully. Their natural sweetness complements the savory filling of the chicken, creating a colorful and nutritious plate. Remember to toss your vegetables in olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting to keep them vibrant and flavorful.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing these stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline weeknight dinners. You can assemble the chicken and filling a day in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to let the chicken come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. To reheat, bake from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. This method keeps the chicken juicy while ensuring that the filling retains its creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thoroughly drain excess moisture from frozen spinach before using it to prevent the filling from becoming watery.

→ What can I serve with stuffed chicken breast?

This chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of rice or quinoa.

→ Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to stuff the chicken.

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

Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.