This Delicious Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is juicy, flavorful, and packed with a creamy, cheesy filling that makes every bite irresistible. It’s a show-stopping main dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare, whether I’m cooking for a cozy dinner or hosting guests. The crispy outside and rich, melty center make this chicken unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this stuffed chicken breast transforms a basic piece of chicken into something gourmet. The filling is creamy and savory, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. It’s versatile too—I can change the stuffing based on what I have on hand. Best of all, it only takes a few steps to create something that looks and tastes restaurant-worthy.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Cream cheese, softened
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Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
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Fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
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Garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper
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Paprika or Italian seasoning
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Olive oil or butter
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Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing the chicken)
Directions
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I start by slicing a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
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In a bowl, I mix the cream cheese, shredded cheese, spinach, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
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I stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture and secure the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
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I season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika or Italian seasoning.
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In a large oven-safe skillet, I heat olive oil or butter over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
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I transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the filling is bubbling.
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After baking, I let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 20–25 minutes of cooking time. In under 40 minutes, I have a beautiful and flavorful main dish ready to serve.
Variations
Sometimes I switch up the filling with sun-dried tomatoes, cooked bacon, or chopped mushrooms for added flavor. I also like using feta or goat cheese for a tangier twist. For a low-carb version, I serve it with roasted veggies or a simple side salad. If I want extra richness, I add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of parmesan over the top before baking.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the oven or a covered skillet on low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Microwaving works too, but I do it gently and in short intervals. I don’t recommend freezing the stuffed chicken once cooked, as the filling can become watery when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, I use frozen spinach often—just make sure it’s thawed and fully drained so it doesn’t water down the filling.
What’s the best cheese for stuffing?
I prefer a combination of cream cheese and mozzarella for meltiness and flavor, but I also enjoy cheddar, feta, or provolone depending on what I’m in the mood for.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
I make sure not to overstuff and always secure the opening with toothpicks or tie the chicken with twine. Searing also helps seal the edges before baking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I sometimes stuff the chicken in the morning, keep it in the fridge, and then sear and bake it just before dinner. It saves time and still tastes fresh.
What sides go well with stuffed chicken breast?
I like pairing it with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. It’s also great with rice or even pasta for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
This Delicious Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is one of my favorite ways to elevate dinner with minimal effort. It’s creamy, savory, and full of satisfying textures. Whether I’m cooking for myself or impressing guests, it always turns out beautifully—and leaves no leftovers behind.
Delicious Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
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Juicy, golden-browned chicken breasts filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture. This easy stuffed chicken recipe is both elegant and comforting, perfect for a weeknight or special dinner.
- Author: Ella
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: American, European
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or 1/2 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika or Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut through.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheese, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture and secure with toothpicks or twine.
- Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika or Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and filling is bubbling.
- Let rest for a few minutes before removing toothpicks and serving.
Notes
- Switch up the filling with sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or bacon.
- Use feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Don’t overstuff the chicken to avoid leakage.
- Best reheated gently to preserve texture.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg