Recipe Overview

Welcome to a culinary delight that combines succulent chicken breast with a flavorful spinach and feta filling! This easy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Feta recipe is a wonderful way to elevate your dinner experience. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, this dish celebrates the fresh, vibrant flavors of spinach paired with the creamy, tangy notes of feta cheese, creating a perfect harmony that tantalizes the palate. Whether you’re seeking a healthy meal or simply craving comfort food, this homemade Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Feta from scratch will surely impress your family and friends!

This dish not only looks stunning when plated but is also packed with nutrients. It’s a great source of protein, calcium, and iron thanks to the spinach and feta, making it a wholesome choice for dinner. Plus, it’s versatile; with the right tweaks, you can even create a vegan Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Feta alternative using plant-based ingredients. In this guide, you will find step-by-step instructions to create this delicious dish, ensuring that even novice cooks can master it with ease!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredient Swaps:

• Substitute almond milk for whole milk in the filling for a dairy-free option.
• Use plant-based cream cheese instead of feta for a vegan variant.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure the seasonings are gluten-free.

Equipment List

• Large frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Baking dish
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Garlic press (optional)
• Spoon or spatula for mixing and spreading

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Next, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, roughly 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before folding in the crumbled feta cheese, black pepper, salt, and optional red pepper flakes.
2. Pound the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to stuff.
3. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step adds flavor to the chicken itself.
4. Stuff the Chicken: Spread a generous portion of the spinach and feta filling onto one side of each chicken breast. Carefully fold the chicken over to enclose the filling, tucking in the sides as needed to prevent spilling.
5. Secure the Chicken: For added security, you can use toothpicks to hold the chicken closed or tie it with kitchen twine. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish.
6. Bake to Perfection: Drizzle the stuffed chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden brown and tender.
7. Rest and Serve: Once baked, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices within the chicken. Serve it with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Special Notes

To store leftovers, place any uneaten stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For those looking to prep ahead, consider stuffing the chicken and storing it in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If at any point you find the filling too thick, simply add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to loosen it up. Should the chicken breasts be overly thick, they can take longer to cook—ensure they are pounded evenly for consistent results.

Variations and Customizations

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some creative ideas to customize this dish:

• Gluten-Free: Make sure to use gluten-free certified seasonings and serve alongside gluten-free sides.
• Vegan: Create a vegan version using a plant-based chicken substitute and non-dairy feta cheese. The flavor profile will remain vibrant and delicious!
• Low-Carb: Serve without bread or pasta, pairing the stuffed chicken with a side of steamed cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Feel free to play with additional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, or herbs to further enhance the stuffing.

Nutritional Information

Estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g

Engaging Visual Details

The stuffed chicken breast should emerge from the oven glistening, with golden-brown edges and a slightly oozing filling that showcases the vibrant green of the spinach and white flecks of feta. The aroma of baked chicken mingled with garlic and fresh herbs will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons everyone to the table. Serve the chicken sliced to reveal the beautiful filling, garnished with chopped parsley for a splash of color.

Conclusion

This easy stuffed chicken breast with spinach and feta recipe is guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner. The combination of flavors and textures offers a delightful experience that is both satisfying and nutritious. We hope you enjoy making this dish as much as you will savor eating it! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below sharing your thoughts, or share your delicious version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy cooking!