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Stuffed Chicken with Spinach: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe for Dinner


  • Author: Lily
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 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.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sautéed spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
  5. Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
  6. Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture, pressing gently to distribute evenly. Avoid overstuffing.
  7. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening of each chicken breast.
  8. 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.
  9. Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon any leftover filling over the top.
  10. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
  11. 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).
  12. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking.
  13. 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