Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and impressive meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than this stuffed chicken breast with spinach and feta! This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken with a savory filling of fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or meal prepping for the week. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also looks stunning when plated, making it a fantastic choice for entertaining.
With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. This stuffed chicken breast recipe is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. You can customize the filling by adding herbs or spices to match your taste preferences. Whether you serve it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a creamy sauce, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. If using sun-dried tomatoes or Parmesan cheese, add them now.
- Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture, securing the openings with toothpicks if necessary.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil on top and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of sides.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken Breast
To ensure your stuffed chicken breast turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:
1. **Use a Meat Mallet**: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them down slightly with a meat mallet. This will help them cook evenly and make it easier to stuff.
2. **Don’t Overstuff**: While it may be tempting to pack in a lot of filling, be careful not to overstuff the chicken. This can cause the filling to spill out during cooking.
3. **Seal Properly**: If you’re worried about the filling leaking out, use toothpicks to seal the openings after stuffing. Just remember to remove them before serving.
4. **Let it Rest**: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps keep it juicy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender bite.
5. **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the filling. Fresh basil, dill, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed chicken breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complement your meal:
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Toss some seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast alongside the chicken for a colorful side dish.
– **Rice Pilaf**: A flavorful rice pilaf with herbs and nuts makes a great accompaniment and can soak up the juices from the chicken.
– **Side Salad**: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the stuffed chicken.
– **Creamy Mashed Potatoes**: For a comforting side, serve your chicken with creamy mashed potatoes topped with a drizzle of gravy or olive oil.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the feta cheese.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you don’t have feta cheese, goat cheese or ricotta can be great alternatives. Each will offer a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check if chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I grill these stuffed chicken breasts?
Absolutely! You can grill the stuffed chicken breasts over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Just ensure they are fully cooked through.
Conclusion
Stuffed chicken breast with spinach and feta is a delightful recipe that’s both satisfying and nutritious. With its simple preparation and impressive presentation, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Try it out, and let the delicious flavors take center stage in your kitchen!
