Description
This Sundried Tomato, Spinach, and Cheese Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spinach, sundried tomatoes, and a blend of cheeses. Searing the chicken before baking locks in moisture and adds a beautiful golden crust, making it a delicious and visually appealing main dish perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks (for securing chicken)
Filling
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen, squeezed dry)
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil or rehydrated)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, sundried tomatoes, cream cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Cut pockets into chicken breasts: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through to keep the filling secure.
- Stuff the chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket generously with the spinach and cheese mixture, then secure the openings using toothpicks to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken breasts for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving. Plate the stuffed chicken breasts and enjoy your flavorful, cheesy meal.
Notes
- Ensure to squeeze out all excess moisture if using frozen spinach to prevent soggy filling.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and avoid overcooking the chicken.
- You can substitute sundried tomatoes packed in oil with rehydrated dry ones by soaking in warm water.
- Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the filling for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
