Description
This Spinach & Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe offers a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and sweet flavors wrapped in tender chicken breasts. Perfect for an elegant yet easy dinner, these chicken breasts are filled with a blend of fresh spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and dried cranberries, then baked to juicy perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Stuffing Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 6 ounces each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
Instructions
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a flavorful stuffing.
- Prepare the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully slit each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. This pocket will hold the stuffing.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the prepared spinach and cranberry mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Drizzle the olive oil over the outside of the chicken breasts. Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme evenly over each piece, ensuring the chicken is well seasoned.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed and seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks or twine and serving. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy chicken.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken breasts are of similar size for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness to avoid overcooking.
- Fresh spinach can be lightly sautéed before mixing if preferred for a milder flavor and reduced moisture.
- Substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like fontina or gouda for variation.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Keywords: stuffed chicken breasts, spinach and cranberry chicken, baked stuffed chicken, creamy chicken recipe, healthy stuffed chicken