Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Highlighted under: Hearty House Classics
I absolutely love making Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken for family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of creamy spinach and artichokes stuffed into tender chicken breasts creates an unforgettable dish that never fails to impress. It’s not only delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you. Trust me, this flavorful meal will become a favorite in your household too!
When I first tried making Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken, I was amazed by how well the flavors melded together. The creamy filling pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken, resulting in a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced. I experimented with different cheeses to find the perfect blend, and I found that a combination of cream cheese and mozzarella gives that rich, gooey texture we all love.
One specific tip I found helpful is to use fresh spinach rather than frozen. Fresh spinach retains its texture better and adds a lovely vibrant color to the dish. Plus, it’s so simple to sauté; it wilts down quickly and enhances the overall flavor. I truly believe this dish is a crowd-pleaser and elevates any dinner table!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and flavorful filling that elevates the chicken
- Perfectly juicy chicken that stays tender while baking
- Ideal for both weeknight family dinners and special occasions
The Perfect Chicken Pocket
Creating a pocket in your chicken breasts is a critical step in achieving the perfect stuffed chicken. Slice each breast horizontally, but be cautious to keep the sides intact. This method not only holds the stuffing securely but also allows for even cooking. If you accidentally cut through, don’t worry; simply secure it with toothpicks after stuffing to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
When preparing the chicken, consider using a sharp knife to make a uniform pocket. This ensures that each chicken breast cooks evenly throughout. If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, pounding them gently to an even thickness can promote better cooking and allow for more stuffing. Plus, it'll help retain more moisture during baking.
Crafting the Filling
The filling of this Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken is what makes it stand out. The cream cheese provides a lush and creamy texture while mozzarella adds both stretch and melty goodness. For a lighter filling, you could substitute ricotta for cream cheese. You can also experiment with adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a flavor kick.
Be mindful when seasoning your stuffing. Freshly minced garlic builds robust flavor, but it can also overpower the delicate artichoke and spinach. Start with the suggested amount, taste, and adjust accordingly. If you want to add a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish without overshadowing the main flavors.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients to make the preparation smooth and easy.
For the stuffing:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika for seasoning
With your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking process!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your delicious Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken.
Prepare the stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Prepare the chicken
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each chicken breast and make a pocket by slicing them horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Stuff the chicken
Fill each chicken pocket with the spinach artichoke mixture, packing it in gently. Season the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Bake the chicken
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. It pairs beautifully with a side of veggies or a fresh salad.
Once everything is done, enjoy this delicious meal!
Pro Tips
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken with herbs and spices before stuffing. You can also substitute the artichokes with sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist!
Storing and Reheating
After enjoying your Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method ensures the chicken remains juicy without drying out, unlike microwave reheating which can lead to a rubbery texture.
If you're looking to prepare this dish in advance, the stuffed chicken can be assembled up to a day before cooking. Just cover the filled chicken with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit for about 15 minutes at room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed chicken dish pairs fabulously with a variety of sides. For a light option, serve it alongside a crisp garden salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. If you're in the mood for something heartier, consider roasted vegetables or a fluffy quinoa pilaf that can soak up the juices from the chicken.
For an impressive presentation, slice the stuffed chicken on a diagonal and fan it out on the plate. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction or a light cream sauce for additional flavor and visual appeal. Completing the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the freshness of the flavors.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
→ How can I tell when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken a day ahead, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.
→ What sides go well with this dish?
This stuffed chicken pairs well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
I absolutely love making Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken for family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of creamy spinach and artichokes stuffed into tender chicken breasts creates an unforgettable dish that never fails to impress. It’s not only delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you. Trust me, this flavorful meal will become a favorite in your household too!
Created by: Elodie Brooks
Recipe Type: Hearty House Classics
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the stuffing:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika for seasoning
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each chicken breast and make a pocket by slicing them horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Fill each chicken pocket with the spinach artichoke mixture, packing it in gently. Season the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. It pairs beautifully with a side of veggies or a fresh salad.
Extra Tips
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken with herbs and spices before stuffing. You can also substitute the artichokes with sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 590mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 34g