This delightful dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach for a comforting yet elegant meal. Perfect for family dinners or a special occasion!
📝 Ingredients:
- 🍗 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 🌿 1 cup fresh or frozen spinach (cooked and drained)
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or any melting cheese)
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🧄 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 🫒 2 tablespoons olive oil
📋 Directions:
- 🌿 Prepare the Filling:
- If using fresh spinach, sauté it in a skillet with a bit of olive oil until wilted, then drain thoroughly.
- If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain completely.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach with shredded cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and stir until combined.
- 🍗 Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
- Preheat the oven to 390°F (200°C).
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a Ziploc bag. Gently pound with a kitchen mallet to flatten slightly for easier stuffing and even cooking.
- 🧀 Stuff and Seal the Chicken Breasts:
- Carefully cut a pocket along the side of each chicken breast. Fill the pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture.
- Secure the edges with toothpicks to prevent the filling from escaping.
- 🔥 Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor.
- 🍳 Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- ✨ Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like salad, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
📊 Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes
🔥 Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
🍽️ Servings: 4