One tray creamy spinach-stuffed chicken

This one tray creamy spinach-stuffed chicken features tender chicken breasts filled with a rich, cheesy spinach mixture, offering a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. It's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

03 Feb 2026
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
2 tsp olive oil
1/3 cup cream cheese
1/3 cup mozzarella cheese
2 garlic cloves
3 cups spinach
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp lemon zest
One tray creamy spinach-stuffed chicken

This one tray creamy spinach-stuffed chicken recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy spinach filling. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe ensures a delicious meal with minimal cleanup.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, chopped spinach, grated parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Using a sharp knife, create pockets in the thickest part of each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through. You want to create a space to hold the filling.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Generously spoon the prepared filling into each chicken breast pocket. Use toothpicks to secure the edges if necessary to ensure that the filling stays inside.
5. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken breasts to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Serving:
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the chicken to remain moist.
8. Optional Garnish:
You can garnish the chicken with a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese or fresh chopped parsley for added flavor and color.
9. Enjoy:
Serve your creamy spinach-stuffed chicken warm, alongside your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

This one tray creamy spinach-stuffed chicken is not only scrumptious but also convenient and easy to prepare. With a creamy spinach and cheese filling baked to perfection inside juicy chicken breasts, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow the tips and enjoy a delightful meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

One tray creamy spinach-stuffed chicken FAQ:

What is the baking time for the spinach-stuffed chicken?

Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check, ensuring it’s inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the filling?

You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Note that this may slightly alter the taste and texture of the filling.

How should I store leftover spinach-stuffed chicken?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the filling to avoid excess moisture.

Tips:

- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.

- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but you can substitute with frozen spinach if needed. Just make sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture.

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal baking temperature.

- To make the stuffing process easier, use a sharp knife to create a pocket in each chicken breast.

- Secure the stuffed chicken breasts with toothpicks to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.

- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more flavorful and moist.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 230kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 3.44g
Fiber 0.40g
Sugar 1.32g
Fat 11g

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