Spinach stuffed chicken breasts deliver juicy chicken packed with a creamy spinach filling that elevates weeknight dinners. This recipe combines fresh spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, and bold seasonings for a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 40 minutes. High in protein and low in carbs, these stuffed chicken breasts satisfy without guilt.
Why Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Shine
Perfect Balance of Flavor and Nutrition
Spinach stuffed chicken breasts offer 41 grams of protein per serving while keeping carbs minimal at just 3 grams. The creamy spinach-Parmesan filling adds richness without overpowering the tender chicken, creating a dish everyone craves.
Simple Ingredients for Big Impact
You’ll use chicken breasts, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cream cheese, Parmesan, mayonnaise, fresh spinach, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. These pantry staples transform into an impressive meal with minimal effort.
How to Prepare Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Seasoning and Preparing the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Drizzle chicken breasts with olive or avocado oil, then sprinkle with a blend of paprika, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder for balanced flavor. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each breast to hold the stuffing.
Making and Filling the Spinach Mixture
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped fresh spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining salt. Mix thoroughly until creamy and evenly distribute the filling inside each chicken breast pocket before placing them in a baking dish.
Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- ▢1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- ▢1 tesapoon paprika
- ▢1 teaspoon salt divided
- ▢¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ▢¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ▢4 ounces cream cheese softened
- ▢¼ cup grated Parmesan
- ▢2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- ▢1 ½ cups chopped fresh spinach
- ▢1 teaspoon garlic minced
- ▢½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and drizzle with oil.
- Add the paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to a small bowl and stir to combine. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Set chicken aside.
- Add cream cheese, Parmesan, mayonnaise, spinach, garlic, red pepper and remaining ½ teaspoon of salt to a small mixing bowl and stir well to combine.
- Spoon the spinach mixture into each chicken breast evenly.
- Place the chicken breasts in a 9×13 baking dish. Bake, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Notes
Serving: 1chicken breast| Calories: 407kcal (20%)| Carbohydrates: 3g (1%)| Protein: 41g (82%)| Fat: 24g (37%)| Saturated Fat: 9g (56%)| Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g| Cholesterol: 139mg (46%)| Sodium: 873mg (38%)| Fiber: 1g (4%)| Sugar: 1g (1%)| Net Carbs: 2g (4%)
How to Prepare Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Seasoning and Preparing the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Drizzle chicken breasts with olive or avocado oil, then sprinkle with a blend of paprika, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder for balanced flavor. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each breast to hold the stuffing.
Making and Filling the Spinach Mixture
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped fresh spinach, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining salt. Mix thoroughly until creamy and evenly distribute the filling inside each chicken breast pocket before placing them in a baking dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
High-Protein Low-Carb Powerhouse
Spinach stuffed chicken breasts pack 41 grams of protein per serving while keeping carbs at just 3 grams, making them ideal for keto, low-carb, or high-protein diets. This combination supports muscle maintenance and keeps you satisfied longer after meals.
Nutrient-Rich Spinach and Cheese Filling
Fresh spinach delivers vitamins A, C, and K, while Parmesan adds calcium for bone health. The creamy filling enhances flavor without excessive calories, creating a balanced 407-calorie meal that nourishes without feeling heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Can I Make Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Ahead of Time?
Yes, assemble the stuffed chicken breasts and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes dinner prep even easier on busy weeknights.
What If I Don’t Have a Sharp Knife for Pockets?
Use kitchen shears or carefully slice with a paring knife. Pound the chicken breasts slightly thinner first to make pocket creation simpler without tearing the meat.
Are There Dairy-Free Substitutions Available?
Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep spinach stuffed chicken breasts dairy-free while maintaining creaminess.
How Do I Know When the Chicken Is Fully Cooked?
Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the filling will be hot and bubbly throughout.
Conclusion
Spinach stuffed chicken breasts deliver restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients and minimal effort. This high-protein, low-carb dinner satisfies cravings while nourishing your body with fresh spinach and quality cheeses. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep, these stuffed chicken breasts elevate any meal rotation effortlessly.
