Description
Enjoy a delightful Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken, featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. This comforting yet elegant dish is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Add chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sautéed spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture, pressing gently to distribute evenly. Avoid overstuffing.
- Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening of each chicken breast.
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon any leftover filling over the top.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot with marinara sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using homemade marinara sauce.
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes