Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

This dish combines the juicy goodness of chicken with the nutritious benefits of spinach to create a mouthwatering, healthy meal. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's sure to impress both at a family dinner or a dinner party.

Photos of Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

The key ingredients for this recipe are fresh spinach leaves and swiss cheese. Fresh spinach leaves can be found in the produce section of your local supermarket, and it's packed with nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C. Swiss cheese is a type of cheese that originated in Switzerland. It's pale yellow in color and has a mild, nutty flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute it with any other kind of cheese.

Ingredients for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Spinach leaves: Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that's packed with vitamins and minerals.

Swiss cheese: This is a medium-hard cheese that's known for its distinctive holes. It has a mild flavor which perfectly complements the chicken and spinach.

Cream cheese: Cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish.

Black pepper: Black pepper provides a hint of heat and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Chicken breast: This is the main ingredient of the dish. It's lean and high in protein.

Bacon slices: Bacon adds a smoky flavor to the dish, and its crispy texture complements the succulent chicken.

Cajun seasoning: This is a spice blend that's typically used in Cajun cuisine. It adds a spicy and smoky flavor to the dish.

One reader, Eugine Santoro says:

This spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy spinach and melted Swiss cheese inside tender chicken, wrapped in crispy bacon, is simply divine. The cajun seasoning adds a perfect kick. It's a must-try for anyone looking to impress with a delicious and elegant dish.

Eugine Santoro

Mastering the Techniques for Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

How to wilt spinach and make cream cheese mixture: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, add chopped spinach and stir until wilted. Then, add cream cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Allow the mixture to cool completely before using it to stuff the chicken breasts.

How to butterfly and pound chicken breast: Cut each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Then, place the chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound it to a ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

How to wrap chicken breast with bacon: After stuffing the chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture, wrap each breast with 2 slices of bacon, ensuring it is secured with toothpicks. This will help the bacon stay in place during cooking and infuse the chicken with flavor.

How to bake stuffed chicken breast: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and place the prepared chicken breasts on a baking pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Remove the toothpicks before serving.

How to season with cajun seasoning: Sprinkle the prepared chicken breasts with cajun seasoning to add a flavorful kick. Adjust the amount based on personal preference and desired level of spiciness.

How To Make Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Grab a bite of this tender and juicy stuffed chicken breast packed with healthy spinach and swiss cheese, all wrapped with bacon, for a heartier meal!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozfresh spinach leaves
2ozSwiss cheese,or mozzarella, sliced into 4 slices
2tbspcream cheese,spreadable, herb and garlic flavor
black pepper
4chicken breasts,boneless, skinless
8bacon slices
Cajun seasoning,optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Chop the spinach and place it in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Stir until wilted. Add the cream cheese, then stir until melted and creamy. Cool completely.
Butterfly the chicken breast, then pound it to ½-inch thickness.
Divide the spinach mixture over each breast, then top with one slice of swiss cheese. Close the chicken around the spinach and cheese.
Wrap each breast with 2 slices of bacon and secure with toothpicks. Season with Cajun seasoning.
Bake on a pan for 35 to 40 minutes.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 644.70kcal
Fat: 46.02g
Saturated Fat: 16.41g
Trans Fat: 0.26g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18.47g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.56g
Carbohydrates: 6.49g
Fiber: 1.83g
Sugar: 1.30g
Protein: 49.86g
Cholesterol: 170.66mg
Sodium: 575.78mg
Calcium: 232.41mg
Potassium: 868.52mg
Iron: 4.30mg
Vitamin A: 376.12µg
Vitamin C: 16.30mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting This Dish

When preparing the chicken breasts, it's important to butterfly them carefully to create a pocket for the stuffing. Use a sharp knife and start at the thicker end, slicing horizontally towards the thinner end, but be careful not to cut all the way through. This will allow you to open the chicken breast like a book, providing ample space for the spinach and cheese stuffing. Additionally, pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks evenly, preventing any dry or undercooked spots.

Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks

Prep ahead: Prepare the spinach and cheese filling the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time when you're ready to assemble the chicken.

Use a meat mallet: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This will help the chicken cook more evenly and reduce baking time.

Bake in bulk: Consider making extra stuffed chicken breasts and freezing them for future quick and easy meals.

Substitute Ingredients For Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

fresh spinach leaves - Substitute with kale: Kale has a similar texture and can hold up well when stuffed inside the chicken breast. It also provides a slightly different flavor profile.
swiss cheese - Substitute with gouda cheese: Gouda has a similar creamy texture and a slightly nuttier flavor, which can complement the spinach and chicken well.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar creamy texture and can add a slightly different flavor profile to the dish.
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken, and they can be stuffed and cooked in a similar manner.
bacon slices - Substitute with prosciutto slices: Prosciutto can provide a similar salty and savory flavor while adding a different texture to the dish.
cajun seasoning - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can provide a similar smoky flavor and add depth to the dish without the spiciness of cajun seasoning.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Presentation

Elevate the dish with a stunning sauce: Create a rich and flavorful reduction using balsamic vinegar and honey to drizzle over the stuffed chicken breast. The glossy sauce will add a touch of elegance and depth of flavor to the dish.
Garnish with precision: Finely chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the plated chicken breast to add a pop of vibrant color and a hint of freshness. This delicate touch will enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Plate with finesse: Carefully arrange the stuffed chicken breast on a bed of sautéed asparagus and wild mushrooms to create a visually stunning presentation. The vibrant colors and textures will captivate the senses.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by delicately placing edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies around the plated dish. The edible blooms will add a whimsical and artistic element to the presentation.
Utilize microgreens for a finishing touch: Sprinkle a handful of vibrant microgreens over the stuffed chicken breast just before serving. The delicate greens will provide a burst of freshness and a visually appealing contrast to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools You'll Need

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food by surrounding it with dry heat.
Non-stick pan: A cooking pan with a special coating to prevent food from sticking.
Toothpicks: Small, pointed sticks used for securing food items together.
Baking pan: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking in the oven.
Meat mallet: A kitchen tool used to pound and flatten meat to an even thickness.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Let the spinach stuffed chicken breast cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken breasts in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts:
- Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped chicken breasts in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, labeling it with the date and contents.
- Frozen spinach stuffed chicken breasts will maintain their best quality for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the thawed chicken breasts in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed chicken breasts in the microwave:
- Place the chicken breast on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The cooking time may vary depending on the power of your microwave and the size of the chicken breast.
Enjoy your reheated spinach stuffed chicken breast as a quick and delicious meal!

Reheating Tips for Delicious Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spinach stuffed chicken breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the chicken loosely with another piece of foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the bacon.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the stuffed chicken breast on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the spinach stuffed chicken in just a few minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken inside the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method will also help to crisp up the bacon exterior.
For a stovetop method, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breast and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated spinach stuffed chicken, try brushing it with a mixture of melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley before reheating. This will give the chicken a delicious garlic-herb flavor and help to keep it moist.

Interesting Trivia About Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate. It is also rich in antioxidants and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

Budget-Friendly or Splurge-Worthy?

This spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Spinach is an affordable and nutritious ingredient, and chicken breasts are reasonably priced. The addition of bacon and swiss cheese may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is still budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and economical choice for a family meal. I would rate this recipe a solid 9 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is This Chicken Dish Healthy or Not So Much?

This spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. Let's break it down:

Healthy aspects:

Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Chicken breast is a lean protein source, essential for muscle growth and repair
Swiss cheese provides calcium and protein, albeit in small amounts

Unhealthy aspects:

Bacon is high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess
Cream cheese adds additional saturated fat and calories to the dish
Cajun seasoning may contain high amounts of sodium, depending on the brand

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Omit the bacon or replace it with a leaner alternative, such as prosciutto or turkey bacon
Use reduced-fat cream cheese or replace it with a healthier spread like hummus or mashed avocado
Opt for low-sodium cajun seasoning or create your own blend using herbs and spices
Increase the spinach content to boost the nutrient density of the dish
Serve the stuffed chicken with a side of colorful vegetables and a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice to create a balanced meal

By making these adjustments, you can transform this dish into a more nutritious option while still maintaining its delicious flavor profile. Remember, moderation is key, and even healthier versions of recipes should be enjoyed as part of a varied and balanced diet.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Recipe

This spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy spinach and swiss cheese filling adds a rich and savory element to the tender chicken breast, while the bacon wrapping infuses a smoky and crispy finish. The use of cajun seasoning adds a subtle kick of heat, elevating the overall dish. The recipe is well-balanced and offers a satisfying and indulgent dining experience. It's a great choice for a special dinner or when you want to impress your guests with a delicious and elegant meal.

Enhance Your Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic, perfect for pairing with the savory spinach stuffed chicken breast.

Roasted Brussel Sprouts: Crispy roasted brussel sprouts seasoned with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, providing a delicious contrast to the bacon-wrapped chicken.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender honey glazed carrots, adding a touch of sweetness to balance out the richness of the stuffed chicken breast.

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Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy and flavorful mushroom risotto. The rich and earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the creamy rice make for a luxurious and satisfying meal.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: These spicy shrimp tacos are a fiesta in your mouth! The juicy and flavorful shrimp paired with the crunchy slaw and zesty sauce make for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Suggestions

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a crispy finish.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. Toasted baguette slices topped with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. It's a refreshing and vibrant start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate when you cut into it. The warm, gooey center is the perfect contrast to the slightly crisp outer layer, creating a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to Italy with a classic tiramisu, featuring layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in espresso and layered with a creamy mascarpone mixture. The dessert is finished with a dusting of cocoa powder, adding a hint of bitterness to balance out the sweetness.

Why trust this Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe:

This spinach-stuffed chicken breast recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their taste buds. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy swiss cheese creates a burst of flavor in every bite. The addition of bacon adds a savory crunch, while the cajun seasoning brings a hint of spice. With carefully selected ingredients like cream cheese and high-quality chicken breasts, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe and savor the delicious results.

Share your thoughts on this spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, feta, or cheddar, to suit your taste preferences.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) before it is safe to eat.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to bake. Just make sure to remove them from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature before baking.

Can I substitute the bacon with something else?

If you prefer not to use bacon, you can omit it altogether or substitute it with thinly sliced prosciutto or turkey bacon for a similar effect.