Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast

Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach and mozzarella filling, then baked until golden and tender. This elegant yet easy dinner is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Filling

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 oz (60 g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.

3. Make the Filling

• In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, mozzarella, cream cheese, garlic, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.

4. Stuff the Chicken

• Divide the filling evenly among the chicken breasts, stuffing it into each pocket.
• Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed.

5. Season

• Brush the chicken with olive oil.
• Mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then rub the seasoning over both sides of the chicken.

6. Bake

• Place the stuffed chicken in the prepared baking dish.
• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

7. Optional Broil

• For a lightly browned top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking.

8. Serve

• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks and serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted baby potatoes
• Steamed rice
• Roasted asparagus
• Green beans
• Garden salad

Tips

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better browning.
• Avoid overstuffing the chicken to keep the filling from leaking out.
• Freshly shredded mozzarella melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4