Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cream Cheese, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Have you ever found yourself staring at chicken breasts in your refrigerator, wondering how to transform them into something extraordinary? I’ve been there too. After a particularly exhausting workday last month, I needed a dinner that would impress my impromptu dinner guests without keeping me in the kitchen all evening. That’s when this Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe came to my rescue.

This Stuffed Chicken Breast combines the creaminess of three cheeses with the earthy flavor of spinach and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. When you slice into the perfectly cooked chicken, the melted filling oozes out, creating a mouthwatering presentation that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen—when in reality, it takes just minutes to prepare.

What makes this easy stuffed chicken breast for weeknight dinner special is how versatile and forgiving it is. Even novice cooks can master this dish, and the results are consistently delicious. Ready to elevate your chicken dinner game? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Chicken Breast

• ✅ Stuffed Chicken Breast with spinach and cheese that’s ready in just 30 minutes for busy weeknights
• ✅ Perfect healthy stuffed chicken breast recipes for meal prep – stays delicious for up to 3 days
• ✅ Versatile best stuffed chicken breast filling ideas that can be customized to your taste
• ✅ Impressive gourmet stuffed chicken breast with prosciutto and basil variation available for special occasions
• ✅ Naturally low-carb stuffed chicken breast for keto diet with only 4g net carbs per serving
• ✅ Gluten-free stuffed chicken breast option that doesn’t compromise on flavor
• ✅ Quick stuffed chicken breast recipes for busy families that even picky eaters will love

Ingredients for Stuffed Chicken Breast

For the Chicken:

• 4 small chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon butter for cooking

For the Filling:

• 6 ounces + 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:

• Cream cheese: For a lighter version, use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt cream cheese
• Cheese options: Replace feta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor
• Vegetable alternatives: Swap spinach for kale or arugula
• Dietary modifications: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan
• Flavor boost: Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano

How to Make Stuffed Chicken Breast – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket in each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
5. Season the chicken breasts on both sides and inside the pockets with the spice mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and feta cheese.
2. Fold in the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes until evenly distributed.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 3: Stuff and Secure the Chicken

1. Divide the filling evenly among the chicken breasts, carefully spooning it into the pockets.
2. Close each pocket and secure with toothpicks if necessary to prevent the filling from leaking out.

Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Chicken Breast

1. Heat the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Chicken Breast

• Room temperature ingredients: Allow cream cheese to soften properly for a smoother filling that’s easier to mix.
• Uniform chicken size: Purchase chicken breasts of similar size or pound them to even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Don’t overstuff: Leave a small border around the edges so the filling doesn’t leak out completely.
• Test doneness properly: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F at its thickest part without overcooking.
• Resting period: Don’t skip the 5-minute rest after cooking – this allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• Make ahead option: Prepare and stuff the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate until ready to cook.
• For extra crispy exterior: After searing, brush the tops with a little olive oil before baking.

Best Ways to Serve Stuffed Chicken Breast

Stuffed chicken breast with sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella pairs beautifully with numerous sides for a complete meal. Here are some perfect accompaniments:

Side Dish Pairings:

• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed asparagus with lemon
• Wild rice pilaf
• Sautéed green beans with almond slivers
• Simple garden salad with balsamic dressing

Sauce Options:

• Light garlic butter sauce
• Fresh pesto drizzle
• Balsamic reduction

Serving Suggestions:

• Slice the chicken on a diagonal to showcase the colorful filling
• Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley
• Serve on a bed of spinach for an extra serving of greens
• Add a lemon wedge on the side for brightness

Nutritional Information for Stuffed Chicken Breast

Per serving (1 stuffed chicken breast):

• Calories: 385 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Net Carbs: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Calcium: 220mg
• Iron: 2mg

This low-carb stuffed chicken breast for keto diet is high in protein and contains healthy fats from the cheeses. It’s a nutrient-dense meal that’s particularly suitable for those following low-carb or ketogenic eating plans.

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store leftover stuffed chicken breast in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These stuffed chicken breasts freeze well for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag.
• Reheating: For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the chicken tough.
• Meal prep tip: Make a double batch of this healthy stuffed chicken breast recipes for meal prep and portion with sides for quick lunches throughout the week.

Variations on Stuffed Chicken Breast

Mediterranean Version

Add olives, roasted red peppers, and oregano to the filling for a Mediterranean twist.

Mexican-Inspired

Replace the filling with a mixture of pepper jack cheese, black beans, corn, and taco seasoning.

Italian Classic

Try stuffed chicken breast using cream cheese and herbs like basil and oregano, plus a spoonful of marinara inside each pocket.

Bacon Lover’s Delight

Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with bacon before searing for added flavor and crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I stuff inside a chicken breast?

Almost anything can work as a filling for stuffed chicken breast! Popular options include cheese combinations (like cream cheese, mozzarella, cheddar), vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, peppers), herbs, and even fruits like apples or dried cranberries. Experiment with your favorite flavor combinations or follow best stuffed chicken breast filling ideas for guaranteed success.

How do you keep stuffed chicken breast moist?

The key to moist stuffed chicken breast is to not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F internal temperature) and remove from heat immediately. The sear-then-bake method helps lock in moisture, and the cheese filling naturally adds juiciness. A brief resting period after cooking also helps redistribute juices throughout the meat.

Can you freeze stuffed chicken breast?

Yes! Stuffed chicken breast freezes well both raw and cooked. For raw freezing, prepare the chicken through the stuffing step, then flash-freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags. For cooked freezing, cool completely then wrap individual portions. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking or reheating.

What is the best way to cook stuffed chicken breast?

The best method for cooking stuffed chicken breast is the two-step process used in this recipe: sear first in a hot skillet to develop a golden crust, then finish in the oven to cook through gently. This method ensures even cooking without drying out the meat. For thicker breasts, you may need to increase the oven time slightly.

Conclusion

This creamy, flavorful stuffed chicken breast recipe transforms an everyday protein into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s still simple enough for weeknight cooking. Whether you’re following how to cook stuffed chicken breast with spinach and cheese for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro looking for new ideas, this versatile recipe delivers consistently impressive results.

The combination of three cheeses with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that elevate simple chicken into something special. And with numerous variations possible, you can adapt this stuffed chicken breast recipe to suit any taste preference or dietary need.

I’d love to know how your stuffed chicken breast turns out! Did you try one of the variations? Do you have your own favorite filling combination? Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next dinner party or family meal.

Now you’re ready to make the best stuffed chicken breast that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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