Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
Delight in this savory Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken, a dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy and flavorful filling.
This Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken recipe is perfect for impressing your guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. The creamy goat cheese combined with fresh spinach creates a delightful filling that pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken breast.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy filling with a hint of tang from goat cheese
- Packed with nutritious spinach, adding both flavor and color
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
Perfect for Any Occasion
Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken is a versatile dish that suits both casual weeknight dinners and elegant dinner parties. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it an impressive centerpiece for any table. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself and your family to a delightful meal, this recipe is sure to please.
The combination of tender chicken and a creamy filling not only tastes incredible but also looks stunning when served. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and you have a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress your guests.
Health Benefits
This stuffed chicken recipe is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Spinach, a key ingredient in the filling, is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. Incorporating spinach into your diet can boost your immune system and improve overall health.
Goat cheese, while rich and creamy, is lower in fat and calories compared to many other cheeses. It also contains beneficial probiotics, which can aid in digestion. By choosing lean chicken breasts, you create a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Customizing Your Dish
One of the great things about Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. For instance, you can add sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of sweetness or some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese. Feta or ricotta could make excellent substitutes for goat cheese, each bringing its unique flavor profile to the dish. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, goat cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
Stuff the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket with the spinach and goat cheese mixture.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the stuffed chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Then transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Serve
Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken!
Storage Tips
If you have leftover Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken, you're in luck! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresh, ensure it's tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a light quinoa salad, which complements the rich flavors of the filling while adding a nutritious boost. Roasted asparagus or a medley of seasonal vegetables also make excellent accompaniments.
For a complete meal, you can add a simple pasta dish tossed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. The lightness of the pasta will balance the richness of the stuffed chicken, creating a satisfying dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use feta cheese instead of goat cheese?
Yes, feta cheese can be a great substitute for goat cheese, adding a different flavor profile.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking.
→ What should I serve with stuffed chicken?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of quinoa.
→ How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.
Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Delight in this savory Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken, a dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy and flavorful filling.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, goat cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket with the spinach and goat cheese mixture.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the stuffed chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Then transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Goat Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g