Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Favorites
I love creating dishes that combine flavor and elegance, and this Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken is a perfect example. It’s savory, creamy, and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of tender chicken breast, rich artichoke hearts, and fragrant spinach is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing me to impress my guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try; you'll love the delightful explosion of flavors in every bite!
When I first experimented with this Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken, I was amazed at how easy it was to assemble. I started by sautéing fresh spinach and mixing it with creamy cheese and artichokes, and the aroma in my kitchen was simply amazing! This method not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also ensures a moist and tender texture.
Each bite is a comforting mix of cheesy goodness and savory chicken. I've found that using a meat mallet to flatten the chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and makes the stuffing easier to roll up. Trust me; this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory filling packed with flavor and creaminess
- Chicken stays incredibly moist and tender
- Great for meal prep or impressing guests
The Creamy Filling
The creamy filling in this Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken is the star of the dish. The combination of cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella not only adds richness but also helps bind the spinach and artichoke hearts together. I like to ensure that the cream cheese is softened enough to mix easily; if it’s too firm, you can microwave it for about 15-20 seconds to soften it just enough. Be sure to taste the filling before stuffing, as adjusting the seasoning can elevate the final dish.
Artichoke hearts contribute a delightful tang and a unique texture to the stuffing. If you're using canned artichokes, make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess brine. Fresh or frozen artichokes can also work beautifully; just steam and chop them beforehand. A little garlic adds depth to the flavor profile, making your filling even more savory.
Perfectly Prepared Chicken
Pounding the chicken breasts is crucial for an even cook and tender bite. It’s best to place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper, which helps avoid messiness and ensures no splatter while tenderizing. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/2 inch; this will help prevent dry edges while the center remains undercooked. Keep an eye on the time while searing – you want that golden crust, but not so long that the chicken dries out.
When you’re rolling the stuffed chicken, it’s important to pack the filling well but avoid overstuffing it. Too much filling can make it difficult to secure the roll, and during cooking, it may ooze out. Using toothpicks or twine to secure your rolls ensures that they hold together, maximizing the flavor in each bite.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Make sure you have everything you need before starting!
Ingredients for the Stuffing
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences!
Instructions
Cooking Steps
Follow these steps for a perfect dish!
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in chopped spinach and artichokes, cooking until wilted. Remove from heat and mix in the cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully pound each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap until they are about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking. Season both sides with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the Chicken
Place a generous amount of filling on one side of each chicken breast. Roll it up tightly, starting from the side with filling, and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Cook the Chicken
In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken roll for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot. Enjoy your delectable Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken!
Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese for a finishing touch!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding sun-dried tomatoes to the stuffing mixture. Also, let the chicken rest before slicing to retain its juices.
Storage and Reheating
After preparing the Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken, it can be conveniently stored for later meals. If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Wrap each stuffed chicken roll in foil or store them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture. They can typically last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, it’s best to use the oven to avoid the chicken from drying out. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If you want to crisp up the edges again, uncover for the last 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken pairs excellently with various sides. A simple garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds refreshing balances to the creamy chicken. Alternatively, serving it with garlic mashed potatoes makes for a comforting and hearty meal. You might also consider roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious addition.
For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra Parmesan and fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the top just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the rich flavors of the stuffing. Enjoy experimenting with different sides that suit your personal taste!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ What can I serve with Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken?
It's great with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
→ Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Absolutely! Wrap it well and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
→ What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
You can substitute with frozen spinach; just make sure to drain any excess moisture before using.
Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
I love creating dishes that combine flavor and elegance, and this Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken is a perfect example. It’s savory, creamy, and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of tender chicken breast, rich artichoke hearts, and fragrant spinach is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing me to impress my guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try; you'll love the delightful explosion of flavors in every bite!
Created by: Ottoline Reeves
Recipe Type: Cozy Comfort Meals Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for the Stuffing
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in chopped spinach and artichokes, cooking until wilted. Remove from heat and mix in the cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully pound each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap until they are about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking. Season both sides with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Place a generous amount of filling on one side of each chicken breast. Roll it up tightly, starting from the side with filling, and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken roll for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot. Enjoy your delectable Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding sun-dried tomatoes to the stuffing mixture. Also, let the chicken rest before slicing to retain its juices.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g