Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful spinach and feta filling, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This dish not only brings vibrant colors to your dinner plate but also packs a nutritious punch with the combination of spinach and feta cheese.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory and creamy filling with a hint of garlic
- Juicy chicken that's perfectly cooked
- Quick and easy to prepare for any night of the week
A Flavorful Filling
The spinach and feta filling in this dish is what truly sets it apart. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy feta cheese creates a savory and rich taste that complements the chicken beautifully. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, enhanced by the aromatic garlic that adds depth to the dish. This filling is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for your family's dinner table.
Using fresh spinach ensures that you get the best flavor and texture. Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin K, which are essential for maintaining good health. By incorporating it into your meals, you're not just treating your taste buds, but also nourishing your body. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy leafy greens in a delicious and satisfying way.
Perfectly Cooked Chicken
Cooking chicken breasts can sometimes be tricky, but this recipe guarantees juicy, tender results every time. By butterflying the chicken, you create an even surface that allows for uniform cooking throughout. Seasoning the chicken with paprika and oregano not only enhances its flavor but also gives it a beautiful, appetizing color when cooked.
Searing the stuffed chicken before baking locks in the moisture and adds a delightful golden crust. This technique ensures that the chicken remains juicy inside while developing a crispy exterior that is hard to resist. The combination of these cooking methods results in a dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Versatile Meal for Any Occasion
This Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. You can serve it alongside a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of quinoa for a complete meal. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will impress your guests, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or celebrations.
Additionally, this recipe is easy to adapt to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, or add extra herbs and spices to the stuffing for a personalized touch. It’s a wonderful way to showcase your culinary creativity while still keeping the preparation simple and straightforward.
Ingredients
For the Stuffing
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to adjust the seasoning as per your taste preferences!
Instructions
Prepare the Stuffing
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through. Season both sides with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the Chicken
Carefully spoon the spinach and feta mixture into each chicken breast. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary.
Cook the Chicken
In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its flavor and texture, it's best to reheat it in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
If you want to freeze the stuffed chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating instructions for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken with a light and refreshing salad to balance the richness of the filling. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Greek salad would complement the flavors beautifully. You could also serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or steamed asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
For a delightful touch, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction over the stuffed chicken just before serving. This adds a sweet tanginess that elevates the dish and impresses your guests. Don’t forget to offer crusty bread on the side, perfect for soaking up any delicious juices left on your plate!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?
You can use goat cheese or ricotta as a substitute, depending on your taste preference.
→ How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to cook.
Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken
This Spinach Feta Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful spinach and feta filling, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffing
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta. Season with salt and pepper.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through. Season both sides with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Carefully spoon the spinach and feta mixture into each chicken breast. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary.
In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
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: 28g