Cooking has always been a source of comfort for me, and this stuffed chicken breast recipe exudes warmth and a sense of home. It’s the kind of dish that brings family together around the dinner table, evoking those cherished memories of sharing meals with loved ones. With juicy chicken, a creamy filling, and a delightful crispy crust, this recipe is pure magic and an absolute delight for the senses. It’s not just food; it’s nourishment that brings happiness and satisfaction.
The key components of this dish are simple yet flavorful. We start with four chicken breasts, which provide a protein-packed base. Then comes one cup of fresh chopped spinach, bringing a pop of color and nutrition. The creamy mixture features one cup each of ricotta and shredded mozzarella cheese, lending a rich texture that melts beautifully as it cooks. A touch of minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning adds a vibrant layer of flavor, while a drizzle of olive oil gives everything a luscious finish. Altogether, these ingredients create a harmonious balance of tastes that comforts and satisfies.
Making this dish is easier than you might think. First, you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, combine the spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Next, you cut pockets into each chicken breast and stuff them with this cheesy mixture. After securing the pockets with toothpicks, you’ll quickly sear them in a skillet for a few minutes before transferring them to a baking dish. The final step is to bake the chicken until it’s cooked through, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Lastly, a brief resting period ensures the juices redistribute before slicing into each stuffed breast.
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day or for impressing guests at a weekend gathering. Whether you’re hosting a family meal, enjoying a quiet night in, or planning a casual potluck, stuffed chicken breast with spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Ricotta & Mozzarella
- Quick and Easy: The steps are straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it convenient to whip this up anytime.
- Comfort Food: This dish offers warmth and satisfaction, perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings.
- Nutrient-Rich: The spinach adds a healthy touch, while the cheeses provide a delightful creamy texture.
- Versatile: It pairs wonderfully with various sides, allowing you to make each dinner unique.
Chicken Breast Tips
When selecting chicken breasts, it’s essential to choose high-quality cuts. Look for chicken that is pale pink and has a firm texture. Avoid any that appear slimy or have dark spots. If you have time, consider using organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and quality. Thicker chicken breasts are preferable as they hold up better during cooking. This way, you can achieve a juicy interior while still getting that beautiful golden crust.
Options for Substitutions
- Turkey Breasts: For a leaner option, try substituting turkey breasts instead of chicken.
- Frozen Spinach: If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen chopped spinach works well; just ensure it’s thawed and drained.
- Cottage Cheese: Substitute the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat alternative that still provides creaminess.
- Cheddar Cheese: Swap the mozzarella with shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Herbs: Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley in place of dried Italian seasoning for a fresher taste.
- Olive Oil: Canola oil or avocado oil can replace olive oil if desired.
Watch Out for These Mistakes
One common mistake to avoid is overcooking the stuffed chicken. Cooking times can vary based on the size of your chicken breasts. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Another pitfall is under-seasoning. Don’t skimp on salt and pepper, as these are crucial for enhancing the flavor of both the chicken and the filling.
Also, be cautious while cutting the pockets in the chicken breasts. Make sure not to cut all the way through, as this will cause your filling to leak out during cooking. Lastly, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking; this ensures the juices remain inside, resulting in a moist and tender bite.
What to Serve With Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Ricotta & Mozzarella?
This stuffed chicken is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. A light pasta dish tossed with olive oil and herbs can also complement the chicken’s rich flavors well. Feel free to get creative and mix and match your favorites!
Storage Instructions
Store: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: You can also freeze the stuffed chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheat: To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, covered, to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Recipe Info
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1,200 – 1,400
- Protein: 140 – 160 grams
- Fat: 70 – 80 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 – 30 grams
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients to make the process smoother.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast; make sure not to slice all the way through. Take your time to create a nice space to hold the filling.
Step 4: Stuff the Breasts
Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast. Be generous, but don’t overstuff to prevent spills during cooking. Secure the openings using toothpicks.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Step 7: Let it Rest and Serve
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period will help maintain the chicken’s juiciness.
Conclusion
Stuffed chicken breast with spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavors you’ll love. Easy to prepare and delightful to eat, it’s perfect for a variety of occasions. I invite you to try this recipe and let the warm flavors embrace your dining table. Please share your thoughts, tips, and experiences, and don’t hesitate to explore more heartwarming recipes on my blog!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance. Assemble them, cover, and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
What can I use if I don’t have mozzarella?
If you don’t have mozzarella cheese, feel free to substitute it with shredded cheddar cheese or even feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
How can I ensure my chicken is juicy?
To ensure juicy chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Resting the chicken before slicing also helps keep the juices contained.
Print
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach, Ricotta & Mozzarella
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting stuffed chicken breast recipe filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients.
- In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Carefully cut pockets into each chicken breast, ensuring not to slice all the way through.
- Spoon the filling into each chicken pocket and secure openings with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the stuffed breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Ensure not to overstuff the chicken to prevent spillage during cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg