Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 oz each)
5–6 ounces fresh spinach (about 5–6 cups, lightly packed)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: toothpicks, as needed
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pound chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. 2. In a large skillet over medium heat, wilt the spinach for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a colander and squeeze out all excess water. Chop the spinach.
3. 3. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Parmesan, chopped spinach, and optional red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. 4. Lay each chicken breast flat. Spoon about 1/4 of the filling onto one side. Fold the other half over or roll to enclose. Secure with toothpicks.
5. 5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
6. 6. Pour chicken broth into the skillet around the chicken. Transfer to the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. 7. Remove toothpicks. Tent with foil and rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
For even cooking, pound chicken to uniform thickness. Squeeze spinach thoroughly dry to avoid watery filling. Do not overstuff; use toothpicks to seal. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Rest the chicken before slicing. Prepare filling up to 2 days ahead or stuff chicken morning of. Freezer-friendly (both uncooked and cooked).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg