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Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Spinach and Cheese

This dish features tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of spinach, cheese, herbs, and garlic. The chicken is seared until golden and then baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and gooey, savory interior that looks impressive on the plate. It’s a versatile and forgiving recipe perfect for a cozy yet elegant meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped, or use frozen and thawed
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
  • 1 lemon lemon zest and juice

Equipment

  • Sharp Knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Ovenproof skillet
  • Kitchen twine or toothpicks

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Slice a pocket into each chicken breast using a sharp knife, careful not to cut all the way through.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and the zest of a lemon until well mixed.
  4. Stuff each chicken breast generously with the spinach mixture, then secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside.
  5. Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear each side of the stuffed chicken breasts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  7. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for brightness and serve sliced, showing the gooey, cheesy filling inside.

Notes

Ensure chicken is pounded to even thickness for uniform cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Secure the stuffing well to prevent spilling during searing.