Spinach Stuffed Chicken

Spinach stuffed chicken is a juicy, flavorful dinner that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. It features tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, then baked or seared to golden perfection. I love how it turns simple ingredients into a dish that’s packed with flavor and always impressive — even on a busy weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe delivers both flavor and comfort in one elegant package. The chicken stays moist from the cheesy spinach filling, and every bite has that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and herby goodness. It’s low-carb, naturally gluten-free, and pairs with just about anything — roasted veggies, pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. Plus, I can prep it ahead and bake it when I’m ready to eat.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)

• Cream cheese (softened)

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Grated parmesan cheese

• Garlic (minced)

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Paprika or Italian seasoning (optional, for added flavor)

• Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. I sauté the spinach and garlic in a bit of olive oil until wilted and let it cool slightly.

3. In a bowl, I mix the spinach with cream cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan until well combined.

4. I cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.

5. I season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika or Italian seasoning.

6. I stuff the spinach mixture into the pocket of each breast and secure with toothpicks if needed.

7. I sear the chicken in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

8. I transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

9. I let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to the spinach filling.

• For extra protein, I mix in cooked crumbled bacon.

• I’ve swapped cream cheese for ricotta or Boursin for a different flavor profile.

• A crust of seasoned breadcrumbs or grated parmesan on top adds a nice texture.

• I’ve also wrapped the stuffed chicken in prosciutto for a crispy, savory finish.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I cover the chicken with foil and bake at 325°F until heated through, or microwave gently in 30-second bursts. I avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the filling creamy and the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, I use frozen spinach often. I make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all the water so the filling isn’t watery.

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

I don’t overstuff the chicken and I use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the edges. Searing the chicken first also helps seal everything in.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I assemble the stuffed chicken in the morning or the night before, then cover and refrigerate. I bring it to room temperature before cooking.

Can I bake this without searing first?

Yes, I’ve baked it directly in the oven at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, but searing adds extra flavor and color. If skipping the skillet step, I brush the chicken with olive oil before baking.

What should I serve with spinach stuffed chicken?

I usually serve it with roasted potatoes, garlic green beans, or a light side salad. It also pairs well with rice, cauliflower mash, or buttered noodles.

Conclusion

Spinach stuffed chicken is one of my go-to recipes when I want something hearty, flavorful, and just a little fancy. I love how the creamy spinach filling keeps the chicken juicy and turns a plain dinner into something special. Whether I’m cooking for family or guests, this dish never fails to impress — and it’s always easier than it looks.