Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious and healthy dish that combines savory flavors and tender chicken. The spinach adds a fresh, earthy flavor, while the feta cheese provides a tangy richness that perfectly complements the mild chicken. With the added kick of garlic and oregano, this dish is bursting with flavor and simple to make. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to a simple salad.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally along the side, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
- Make the Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic. Stir until well combined.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Gently stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture, dividing the filling evenly among the chicken breasts. Secure the open edge with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling in place.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown.
- Finish in the Oven:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove any toothpicks, and slice the chicken to reveal the delicious spinach and feta filling.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
- Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs such as basil or thyme to the spinach and feta mixture for an additional burst of flavor.
- Cheese Substitution: If you don’t have feta, you can substitute with goat cheese, ricotta, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Add Protein: For an extra protein boost, you can mix in some cooked quinoa or even chopped chicken into the stuffing.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the spinach filling for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze the stuffed chicken breasts?
Yes! You can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken breast.
Can I make this recipe without feta cheese?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta cheese, or even shredded mozzarella for a different flavor. The recipe is flexible to your preferences.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic?
Yes, fresh garlic is preferred for a stronger flavor, but you can use jarred garlic if necessary. Adjust to taste.
What can I serve with this dish?
This stuffed chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a side salad, or quinoa for a well-rounded meal.
How do I make the chicken breasts more tender?
To ensure the chicken is tender, be careful not to overcook it. You can also pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing them to ensure they cook evenly.
Conclusion
This Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s packed with nutrients and perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy feta, fresh spinach, and tender chicken creates a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
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Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast is a savory and healthy dish filled with creamy feta, fresh spinach, and seasoned with garlic and oregano. Baked to perfection, it’s a deliciously tender meal that’s perfect for dinner or a special occasion. Simple to make, full of flavor, and easy to customize, this stuffed chicken breast will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket horizontally into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. -
Make the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic. Stir until well combined. -
Stuff the Chicken:
Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture, evenly dividing the filling. Secure the open edge with toothpicks if necessary. -
Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. -
Finish in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). -
Serve:
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks and slicing. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a salad.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake as instructed.
Substitutions: If you don’t have feta cheese, you can use goat cheese, ricotta, or shredded mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Garlic Option: You can use jarred garlic or garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean