This Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, taking inspiration from the hearty, flavorful meals often associated with the Pioneer Woman. If you’re searching for a simple yet impressive dinner that’s packed with taste, look no further. This recipe, a spin on a blog favorite, elevates ordinary chicken breasts into a restaurant-quality dish your family will request again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Spinach Chicken
This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a flavorful and surprisingly easy way to make dinner exciting. Here’s why you’ll be adding this to your regular rotation:
- Flavor Explosion: The creamy spinach and cheese filling perfectly complements the juicy chicken, creating a rich and satisfying taste.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: You likely have many of these ingredients already in your kitchen. With just a few steps, you can transform basic items into an elegant meal.
- Weeknight Winner: Quick prep and cook times mean this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for weekend guests.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customize this recipe with different cheeses, seasonings, or by adding bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Healthier Option: Packed with protein and spinach, this is a relatively healthy and delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal.
Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need for Pioneer Woman Style Spinach Stuffed Chicken:
To create this mouthwatering Pioneer Woman inspired dish, gather these simple ingredients:
- Fresh Baby Spinach: 10-oz bag. Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully and provides a vibrant, healthy filling.
- Cream Cheese: 1/2 cup. This is the star of the creamy filling, adding richness and tang. You can use full-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese depending on your preference. For an even richer flavor, consider Neufchâtel cheese.
- Shredded Cheese: 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese. Monterey Jack is mild and melts wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or a Colby Jack blend.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is key for adding aromatic depth to the spinach filling.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 4 breasts, pounded to 1/4″ thickness. Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and makes it easier to roll around the filling.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Spinach Stuffed Chicken:
Follow these easy steps to create your own Pioneer Woman inspired spinach stuffed chicken:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F (232 degrees C). This high temperature helps sear the chicken and cook it through quickly.
- Wilt the Spinach: Place the baby spinach in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring every minute, until the spinach is wilted. Alternatively, you can quickly sauté the spinach in a pan until wilted.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In the bowl with the wilted spinach, stir in the cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Lay the pounded chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon an equal amount of the spinach and cream cheese mixture onto each chicken breast.
- Roll and Secure: Roll up each chicken breast tightly to enclose the spinach filling. Secure each roll with toothpicks to keep them closed during cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Searing adds color and flavor.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven (remember the handle will be hot!). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
bacon and chicken breasts
Pro Tips for the Best Spinach Stuffed Chicken:
- Pound it Out: Don’t skip pounding the chicken breasts! This step is crucial for even cooking and easy rolling. Place chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound to an even 1/4-inch thickness.
- Searing is Key: Searing the chicken before baking not only adds flavor but also helps to lock in moisture, resulting in juicier chicken.
- Toothpick Trick: Toothpicks are your best friend for keeping the chicken rolls intact. Soak wooden toothpicks in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning in the oven.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts, as the filling may ooze out during cooking.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses in the filling. Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can add a unique twist.
- Add Bacon (Optional): For a richer, smoky flavor, wrap each stuffed chicken breast with a slice of bacon before searing and baking.
Serving Suggestions for Cream Cheese Spinach Chicken:
Complete your Pioneer Woman inspired meal with these delicious side dish ideas:
- Classic Sides: Rice-a-Roni or plain white rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta salad are always great choices.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, green beans, Brussels sprouts, or corn on the cob are healthy and flavorful pairings.
- Salads: A fresh side salad or Caesar salad provides a lighter counterpoint to the rich chicken.
- Garlic Bread: For a truly comforting meal, serve with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Asparagus with Tomatoes and Feta Recipe
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (approximate):
- Calories: 354
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 133mg
- Sodium: 377mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 47g
This spinach stuffed chicken breast recipe is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of protein and nutrients. It’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that fits into a variety of dietary preferences.
Enjoy Your Pioneer Woman Inspired Chicken!
This Pioneer Woman Chicken With Cream Cheese Spinach recipe is a fantastic way to bring comforting, flavorful food to your table. Easy to prepare and loved by all, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe tonight and experience the deliciousness for yourself! Don’t forget to share your creations and variations in the comments below!
