Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant? Look no further than these succulent Chicken Breasts Stuffed with Mushrooms and Spinach! In just 45 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that combines tender chicken with a creamy, savory filling. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Dive into the details and discover how to elevate your cooking game with this irresistible dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by placing them on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. This is where you will stuff the mixture.
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they have released their moisture and are browned.
- Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushrooms and spinach with the cream cheese and grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Carefully stuff each chicken breast pocket with the mushroom and spinach mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary, to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Season the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You can also add additional spices or herbs if desired, such as paprika or Italian seasoning.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
- Serve the stuffed chicken breasts warm, garnished with additional parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Breasts Stuffed with Mushrooms and Spinach!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to stuff the chicken.
- Choose the Right Chicken: Look for chicken breasts that are uniform in size for even cooking. If they are particularly thick, consider butterflying them for quicker cooking.
- Searing for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a beautiful golden crust and locks in moisture, making your chicken even more delicious.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, or different herbs to the stuffing for a unique twist.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional grated parmesan can elevate the presentation and make your dish pop!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 120mg
