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Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

If you’re anything like me and love a good creamy, savory chicken dinner that’s both comforting and impressive, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe. It’s one of those dishes I keep coming back to because it hits all the right notes – juicy chicken, cheesy goodness, and that classic spinach-artichoke combo that everyone seems to adore. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to weeknight winner or even your special occasion showstopper.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Deliciously Creamy Filling: The spinach, artichokes, and mix of cheeses make each bite rich and satisfying.
  • Simple Yet Impressive: It looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull together, perfect for busy nights or guests.
  • Juicy, Flavor-Packed Chicken: Seasoned and seared to golden perfection before baking for maximum taste and moisture.
  • Family Favorite: My loved ones go crazy for this, and I’m confident yours will too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe lies in the blend of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Pick fresh spinach for vibrant flavor and grab good-quality artichokes – either canned or jarred works well.

Flat lay of fresh whole boneless skinless chicken breasts, a small pile of chopped fresh spinach leaves, a few pale yellow artichoke hearts chopped, a small white ceramic bowl of soft cream cheese, a small white ceramic bowl of grated Parmesan cheese, a single fresh garlic clove, a tiny heap of dried basil leaves, a tiny heap of dried oregano leaves, a small white ceramic bowl of coarse salt, a small white ceramic bowl of black peppercorns, a small white ceramic bowl of olive oil, a small heap of paprika powder, a small heap of garlic powder, a small heap of onion powder placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts, creamy stuffed chicken, cheesy chicken dinner, easy chicken breast recipes, elegant weeknight chicken
  • Fresh Spinach: I like using fresh because it offers a nice texture and bright flavor; just be sure to chop it finely for easy stuffing.
  • Artichoke Hearts: Canned or jarred artichokes both work; just drain thoroughly to avoid watery filling.
  • Cream Cheese: Softened for smooth mixing and that luscious creaminess you expect.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a salty depth that really shines.
  • Garlic: Minced for that punch of savory warmth.
  • Dried Basil and Oregano: These classic herbs add the perfect savory herbal notes.
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The perfect vessel for stuffing; I like ones that are about even thickness to cook uniformly.
  • Olive Oil: For searing the chicken to a beautiful golden brown.
  • Seasoning Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, plus salt and pepper bring out deep flavor on the chicken exterior.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how easy this recipe is to personalize. Whether you want to add a little extra spice, swap in your favorite greens, or make it a bit lighter, you can tweak it to suit your mood and dietary needs.

  • Cheese Variations: I once added shredded mozzarella for even more melty goodness, which my kids loved.
  • Greens Swap: If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard can be fantastic substitutes – just sauté them lightly first.
  • Spice It Up: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling brings a nice gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
  • Low-Carb / Keto Friendly: This recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it perfect if you’re watching your carb intake.

How to Make Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Filling

Start by combining chopped spinach, artichokes, softened cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. I like to mix this with a spoon until it’s smooth and everything is evenly distributed. This mixture is the tasty heart of your stuffed chicken, so getting it well combined really makes a difference.

Step 2: Create Pockets in the Chicken Breasts

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast—think of it like carving out a little cave for that delicious filling. Take your time here; you want the pocket deep enough to hold a good amount of filling but not so deep that it splits open entirely. If you’re nervous about tearing the meat, just go slow and steady.

Step 3: Stuff and Secure the Chicken

Spoon the spinach-artichoke mixture evenly into each pocket. It’s tempting to overfill, but trust me—a packed pocket can burst in the oven. If your chicken feels like it might open up during cooking, pop in a toothpick or two to hold the edges shut. Just remember to remove those before serving!

Step 4: Season and Sear the Chicken

Now for the outside seasoning – mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, then generously rub it all over each stuffed breast. I like this spice combo because it complements the filling without overpowering it. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in moisture and gives you a gorgeous color and depth of flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your skillet to the oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. I recommend using a meat thermometer; 165°F (74°C) internal temperature means it’s safe and juicy without drying out. When done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes—this helps keep everything tender and allows the filling to settle.

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Pro Tips for Making Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

  • Even Thickness Matters: If your chicken breasts vary in thickness, gently pound them to an even size so they cook evenly without drying out.
  • Drain Artichokes Well: I learned the hard way that watery artichokes make filling sloppy — pat them dry before mixing for the best texture.
  • Use a Sharp Knife for Pockets: A sharp blade helps create clean cuts without shredding the meat, which helps keep the filling intact during baking.
  • Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy and allows the flavors to meld—don’t skip this easy extra step!

How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

A white plate holds a sliced stuffed chicken breast with a crispy, golden-brown outer layer, showing a creamy white filling mixed with green herbs inside. Behind the chicken is a fresh salad made of green and purple leafy vegetables, giving a mix of bright and dark green colors. The plate is set on a soft blue cloth on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts, creamy stuffed chicken, cheesy chicken dinner, easy chicken breast recipes, elegant weeknight chicken

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a bit of fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving—it adds a pop of color and a touch of fresh brightness that balances the creamy filling perfectly. Sometimes a light drizzle of olive oil or even a squeeze of lemon juice feels just right to brighten everything up.

Side Dishes

During the colder months, I pair this chicken with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the filling wonderfully. For something lighter, it’s fantastic alongside a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus. Sometimes, a side of quinoa or couscous rounded things out beautifully for a dinner guests always compliment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, try slicing the stuffed chicken on a diagonal to reveal the colorful filling inside, then fan out the slices on a platter with some extra grated Parmesan and herbs. It looks fancy but is so simple, and guests love that little “wow” moment when they see what’s inside!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The filling sometimes firms up a bit when chilled, but the flavors actually deepen overnight, so it’s a win for next-day meals.

Freezing

This recipe freezes incredibly well. I usually freeze the chicken before baking—just stuff and season, wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer the oven or a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This method keeps the chicken juicy while warming the filling nicely. Microwaving works in a pinch but can dry the chicken out and change the texture of the filling.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for the filling?

    Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out all excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid a soggy filling.

  2. How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?

    Using even thickness chicken breasts, searing before baking, and not overcooking by monitoring with a meat thermometer are key steps to keep the chicken moist and tender.

  3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

    Absolutely! Swap the cream cheese and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives or cashew cream to maintain the creamy texture without dairy.

  4. Is it necessary to use toothpicks to secure the chicken?

    Not always, but if your chicken feels like it might open during cooking, toothpicks can help keep the filling inside. Just remember to remove them before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe is one of those recipes that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar. It delivers on all fronts: flavor, texture, and ease. Over the years, it’s become a staple in my meal rotation because it manages to satisfy my craving for something creamy and cheesy while still feeling like a wholesome meal. If you want a dinner that’s fancy enough to impress but straightforward enough for weeknights, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this a try. Once you do, I’m sure you’ll be just as smitten as I am!

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Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 115 reviews
  • Author: Jasmine
  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 25 min
  • Total Time: 40 min
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and hearty dish where tender chicken breasts are filled with a creamy blend of fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and Parmesan. This flavorful and satisfying recipe combines a rich filling with perfectly seasoned and seared chicken, finished in the oven for a juicy and comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Filling

  • 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
  • ½ cup artichoke hearts (canned or jarred, drained and chopped)
  • ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Chicken

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken after searing.
  2. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, mix the chopped spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined and creamy.
  3. Create chicken pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. This will hold the filling securely.
  4. Stuff the chicken: Evenly divide the spinach and artichoke mixture among the four chicken breasts, spooning it into each pocket. Use toothpicks if necessary to seal the openings.
  5. Season the chicken: Season the outside of each stuffed chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to flavor the exterior.
  6. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown to lock in juices and develop flavor.
  7. Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet with the seared stuffed chicken to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is fully cooked through.
  8. Rest and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest a few minutes. Remove any toothpicks carefully, then serve the stuffed chicken hot for a delicious, creamy, and tender meal.

Notes

  • The filling can be prepared ahead of time to save time on busy days.
  • Use fresh spinach for best flavor, but frozen thawed spinach can be substituted after squeezing out excess moisture.
  • To prevent the filling from spilling, do not overstuff the chicken breasts.
  • Using an oven-safe skillet means fewer dishes and easy transfer from stovetop to oven.
  • Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
  • Calories: 697 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 542 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 102 g
  • Cholesterol: 278 mg

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