Description
Cozy and satisfying, these Creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Fillets feature tender chicken filled with a rich garlic and Parmesan filling, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fresh spinach (wilt quickly)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (pinch)
- 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts (even-sized)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (thyme or parsley) (chopped)
Instructions
- Prep the filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, nutmeg, red pepper flakes, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the fresh spinach after wilting it quickly in a hot skillet for 30 to 60 seconds and squeezing out excess moisture; mix until smooth and cohesive.
- Make pockets in the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and lay flat; use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket along the thick side without slicing through, or slice horizontally to create a flap.
- Stuff the fillets: Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the spinach-cream mixture into each pocket, pressing gently to spread but avoid overstuffing which can cause filling to escape.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and caramelized.
- Finish in the oven: Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F oven and bake 12 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish and serve: Remove toothpicks, slice on the bias to reveal the filling, and spoon any pan juices over the top. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Notes
For best results, ensure even thickness of chicken fillets, keep the filling dry, and rest the chicken after baking to retain moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort / American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg