Description
Succulent Mediterranean stuffed chicken breast recipe showcases rich flavors of Greece with herbed cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Mediterranean herbs and tangy feta create a delightful meal you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 chicken breasts
Cheese and Dairy:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (25 grams) parmesan cheese
Herbs, Seasonings, and Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups (60 grams) fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (optional)
- 4 toothpicks
Instructions
- Prepare a preheated oven at 375F (190C) for optimal cooking temperature.
- Create a savory filling by gently wilting fresh spinach with minced garlic in olive oil, then fold in smooth cream cheese and shredded mozzarella until well combined.
- Carefully slice a deep pocket into each chicken breast without cutting completely through, creating a spacious cavity for stuffing.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, ground black pepper, and smoky paprika to enhance flavor profile.
- Delicately fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared spinach and cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Secure the open edges of the stuffed chicken breasts using toothpicks to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts until they develop a golden-brown exterior on both sides.
- Transfer the entire skillet directly into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F.
- Once cooked, carefully remove toothpicks and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking and consistent stuffing distribution.
- Use fresh spinach for brighter flavor and better texture compared to frozen spinach.
- Control cheese mixture temperature to prevent separation during cooking by mixing at room temperature.
- Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and enhance exterior crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg