Description
Juicy chicken breasts filled with creamy spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, and garlic, then seared and baked until perfectly tender.
Ingredients
3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups chopped baby spinach
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and position the oven rack in the center.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic, and salt until smooth. Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and chopped spinach until fully mixed.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each breast, slicing about three-quarters of the way through without cutting all the way.
4. Divide the filling evenly among the chicken breasts and stuff each pocket. Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Season the chicken on all sides.
6. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon the pan juices over the top for extra flavor.
Notes
Use large chicken breasts for easier stuffing.
Secure with toothpicks if the filling starts to spill out.
Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop and Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American