Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken Delicious and Easy Recipe

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Looking for a tasty meal that’s easy to make? You’re in the right place! My Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken recipe is both delicious and simple. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can impress your family and friends. Plus, I’ll share handy tips and options for making it your own. Ready to cook? Let’s dive into this fun, flavorful dish that you’ll want to whip up again and again!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful Filling: The combination of spinach and feta creates a deliciously rich and tangy stuffing that elevates the chicken to a new level.
  2. Healthy Ingredients: This recipe is packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a wholesome choice for a balanced meal.
  3. Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, anyone can whip this dish up for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
  4. Beautiful Presentation: Serve it on a bed of wilted spinach or roasted veggies for a stunning plate that impresses guests.

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

To make this dish, gather the following items:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Zest of 1 lemon

– Juice of 1/2 lemon

Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach

I prefer fresh spinach for this recipe. It gives a crisp flavor and bright color. Fresh spinach wilts nicely when cooked, mixing well with the cheese. If you only have frozen spinach, that works too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well. Frozen spinach can be watery, which may make your filling too soggy. Always aim for a nice texture in the filling.

Substitutes for Feta Cheese

Feta cheese adds a unique taste, but you can swap it if needed. Here are some alternatives:

– Goat cheese gives a tangy flavor.

– Ricotta cheese makes a creamy filling.

– Cotija cheese offers a crumbly texture.

Choose a cheese that matches your taste. Each option will change the final flavor a bit, but all can work well in this dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Chicken Breasts

To begin, take your chicken breasts. You need four boneless, skinless pieces. Place each breast on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, slice into the side of each breast. Make a pocket, but don’t cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the tasty filling later.

Making the Spinach and Feta Filling

Next, grab a mixing bowl. Add two cups of fresh, chopped spinach. Then, add one cup of crumbled feta cheese. Toss in half a cup of softened cream cheese. Mince two garlic cloves and add them to the bowl. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried oregano, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Don’t forget the zest of one lemon and the juice of half a lemon. Mix everything well until it looks creamy and colorful.

Searing and Baking the Chicken

Now, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Take your stuffed chicken breasts and place them in the hot skillet. Sear each side for about three to four minutes. You want them golden brown. After searing, transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Check for doneness; the chicken should not be pink inside. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

How to Keep Chicken Moist

To keep your chicken moist, start with fresh breasts. Always use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures safe cooking while keeping the meat juicy. You can also brine chicken in saltwater for a few hours before cooking. This step adds flavor and moisture.

Best Cooking Techniques for Stuffed Chicken

Searing your stuffed chicken is key. Heat olive oil in a skillet before adding the chicken. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes. This gives a nice golden crust. After searing, bake the chicken in the oven. Baking helps cook it evenly and keeps the filling warm.

Recommended Cooking Tools and Equipment

Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken. A meat thermometer is crucial for checking doneness. A large skillet is perfect for searing. You’ll also need a baking dish for the oven. Toothpicks help keep the filling inside while cooking. Lastly, have a mixing bowl ready for your filling.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant flavor and nutrition. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it completely to avoid excess moisture.
  2. Secure the Pocket: If the chicken pocket is large, use toothpicks to secure the opening after stuffing. This prevents the filling from leaking out during cooking.
  3. Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) when done.
  4. Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Variations

Adding Different Cheeses

You can switch up the flavors by using different cheeses. Try goat cheese for a tangy kick. Mozzarella adds a nice stretch and creaminess. For a sharp taste, use aged cheddar. Mix and match according to what you love. Each cheese will give the dish a unique twist.

Alternatives for Spinach

If you want to change the greens, kale works well. You can also use Swiss chard or collard greens. These options have a similar texture but a different taste. Cooking them down will keep the filling moist and flavorful. Experiment with what you have on hand!

Flavor Enhancements with Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices can bring your spinach feta stuffed chicken to life. Add fresh basil for a sweet aroma. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives some heat. Thyme or rosemary can add depth. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations. Each herb will create a new taste experience!

Storage Info

Proper Refrigeration Techniques

To keep your Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and keep the chicken tasty. It can last for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you have leftovers, make sure they cool down before putting them in the fridge.

Freezing Stuffed Chicken

You can freeze Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy this meal later. To use, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat the stuffed chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but it may not keep the chicken crispy. Make sure to check that the chicken is heated all the way through before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken ahead of time. You can stuff the chicken breasts and then cover them. Keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just sear and bake them. This saves you time and adds flavor as the chicken sits with the filling.

What should the internal temperature of stuffed chicken be?

The internal temperature of stuffed chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures that it’s safe to eat. If it’s not at this temperature, return it to the oven until it is.

Can I grill Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken. First, sear the chicken on a skillet for a few minutes. Then, move it to the grill. Cook on medium heat until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the filling. Enjoy the crispy outside and juicy inside!

This guide covered ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken. Fresh versus frozen spinach and cheese substitutes can change the taste. You learned to keep chicken moist and explored various cooking tools. We discussed fun variations and how to store leftovers.

Overall, this meal is easy and tasty. With the right steps, you can impress anyone. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t be afraid to try new flavor

To make this dish, gather the following items: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Zest of 1 lemon - Juice of 1/2 lemon I prefer fresh spinach for this recipe. It gives a crisp flavor and bright color. Fresh spinach wilts nicely when cooked, mixing well with the cheese. If you only have frozen spinach, that works too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well. Frozen spinach can be watery, which may make your filling too soggy. Always aim for a nice texture in the filling. Feta cheese adds a unique taste, but you can swap it if needed. Here are some alternatives: - Goat cheese gives a tangy flavor. - Ricotta cheese makes a creamy filling. - Cotija cheese offers a crumbly texture. Choose a cheese that matches your taste. Each option will change the final flavor a bit, but all can work well in this dish. {{ingredient_image_1}} To begin, take your chicken breasts. You need four boneless, skinless pieces. Place each breast on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, slice into the side of each breast. Make a pocket, but don't cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the tasty filling later. Next, grab a mixing bowl. Add two cups of fresh, chopped spinach. Then, add one cup of crumbled feta cheese. Toss in half a cup of softened cream cheese. Mince two garlic cloves and add them to the bowl. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried oregano, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Don’t forget the zest of one lemon and the juice of half a lemon. Mix everything well until it looks creamy and colorful. Now, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Take your stuffed chicken breasts and place them in the hot skillet. Sear each side for about three to four minutes. You want them golden brown. After searing, transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Check for doneness; the chicken should not be pink inside. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your meal! To keep your chicken moist, start with fresh breasts. Always use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures safe cooking while keeping the meat juicy. You can also brine chicken in saltwater for a few hours before cooking. This step adds flavor and moisture. Searing your stuffed chicken is key. Heat olive oil in a skillet before adding the chicken. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes. This gives a nice golden crust. After searing, bake the chicken in the oven. Baking helps cook it evenly and keeps the filling warm. Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken. A meat thermometer is crucial for checking doneness. A large skillet is perfect for searing. You’ll also need a baking dish for the oven. Toothpicks help keep the filling inside while cooking. Lastly, have a mixing bowl ready for your filling. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant flavor and nutrition. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it completely to avoid excess moisture. Secure the Pocket: If the chicken pocket is large, use toothpicks to secure the opening after stuffing. This prevents the filling from leaking out during cooking. Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) when done. Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. {{image_2}} You can switch up the flavors by using different cheeses. Try goat cheese for a tangy kick. Mozzarella adds a nice stretch and creaminess. For a sharp taste, use aged cheddar. Mix and match according to what you love. Each cheese will give the dish a unique twist. If you want to change the greens, kale works well. You can also use Swiss chard or collard greens. These options have a similar texture but a different taste. Cooking them down will keep the filling moist and flavorful. Experiment with what you have on hand! Herbs and spices can bring your spinach feta stuffed chicken to life. Add fresh basil for a sweet aroma. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives some heat. Thyme or rosemary can add depth. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations. Each herb will create a new taste experience! To keep your Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and keep the chicken tasty. It can last for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you have leftovers, make sure they cool down before putting them in the fridge. You can freeze Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy this meal later. To use, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat the stuffed chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but it may not keep the chicken crispy. Make sure to check that the chicken is heated all the way through before serving. Yes, you can prepare Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken ahead of time. You can stuff the chicken breasts and then cover them. Keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, just sear and bake them. This saves you time and adds flavor as the chicken sits with the filling. The internal temperature of stuffed chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures that it's safe to eat. If it's not at this temperature, return it to the oven until it is. Yes, you can grill Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken. First, sear the chicken on a skillet for a few minutes. Then, move it to the grill. Cook on medium heat until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the filling. Enjoy the crispy outside and juicy inside! This guide covered ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken. Fresh versus frozen spinach and cheese substitutes can change the taste. You learned to keep chicken moist and explored various cooking tools. We discussed fun variations and how to store leftovers. Overall, this meal is easy and tasty. With the right steps, you can impress anyone. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t be afraid to try new flavors!

Spinach & Feta Stuffed Chicken

Delicious chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach and feta filling.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 0.5 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 piece zest of 1 lemon
  • 0.5 piece juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, black pepper, salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
  • Take each chicken breast and make a pocket by slicing into the side, being careful not to cut all the way through.
  • Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture, using toothpicks to secure the opening if necessary.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  • Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
  • Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  • Serve warm, drizzled with any juices from the baking dish.

Notes

Plate the chicken on a bed of wilted spinach or alongside roasted vegetables, and garnish with a sprinkle of extra feta and a slice of lemon for a pop of color.
Keyword chicken, feta, healthy, spinach, stuffed

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