Description
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful baked chicken dish featuring tender boneless breasts filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, garlic, and Italian herbs. This elegant yet simple recipe is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or special occasion meal, offering a delightful blend of cheesy goodness and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Prepare Chicken: Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly to enhance flavor.
- Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Stuff Chicken: Spoon the ricotta and spinach mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes per side until lightly golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and serving, allowing juices to redistribute for maximum moisture.
Notes
- Use thicker chicken breasts for easier stuffing and a juicier result.
- If using frozen spinach, thaw thoroughly and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent soggy filling.
- Serve with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheat well for next-day enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
