Description
Stuffed chicken breasts combine creamy spinach and melted cheese in a delightful main course. Crisp exterior and juicy interior promise a satisfying meal that delights diners seeking comfort and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, about 7 oz (198 g) each
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese, about 4 oz (113 g) total
- 2 tbsps parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups fresh spinach or ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Stuffing: Blend cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, and garlic into a smooth, cohesive mixture ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Prepare Chicken: Carefully butterfly chicken breasts, creating a delicate pocket without completely separating the meat, allowing space for the creamy filling.
- Stuff and Season: Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the prepared cheese and spinach mixture, sealing edges and seasoning externally with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Coat and Crisp: Methodically dredge stuffed chicken breasts through seasoned flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs to develop a golden, crunchy exterior.
- Sear and Roast: Heat olive oil in a skillet, brown chicken breasts to create a crisp surface, then transfer to a preheated 375°F oven for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Serve: Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes post-cooking, ensuring moisture retention, then plate and garnish with fresh parsley or additional parmesan for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Butterfly with Care: Slice chicken breasts horizontally, creating a pocket without cutting completely through to ensure even stuffing distribution.
- Mix Filling Thoroughly: Blend spinach, cheeses, and garlic completely to create a uniform, creamy mixture that guarantees consistent flavor in every bite.
- Crispy Coating Technique: Dredge chicken in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior that locks in moisture and adds delightful texture.
- Temperature Matters: Check internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety while maintaining juicy, tender meat during cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 51 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg