Description

Indulge in a savory delight with Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breasts. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. Follow these simple steps to elevate your dinner table with this mouthwatering recipe.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and retains its juiciness.
Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy and flavorful filling.
Create Pockets in Chicken: Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be sure not to cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the delicious ricotta mixture.
Stuff the Chicken: Stuff the ricotta mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the pockets closed and prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear each side until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds a flavorful crust to the chicken.
Add Chicken Broth and Bake: Pour chicken broth into the skillet around the chicken breasts. This helps to keep the chicken moist during baking. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Let It Rest: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and flavorful chicken with every bite.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 390 kcal

Notes

Make the most out of your Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breasts with these serving and storage tips:

Serving Tips:

Garnish Creatively: Before serving, garnish the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve the stuffed chicken breasts alongside a refreshing green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a well-balanced meal.
Sauce Accompaniment: Consider serving the chicken with a side of marinara sauce or creamy Alfredo sauce for dipping or drizzling. The sauces complement the flavors of the stuffed chicken beautifully.
Presentation: Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts on a platter and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese shavings for an elegant presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure that the chicken is cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness.
Freezing: If you wish to store the stuffed chicken breasts for a longer period, they can be frozen. Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the stuffed chicken breasts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave in short intervals, ensuring not to overcook and dry out the chicken.
Meal Prepping: Consider preparing a batch of Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breasts ahead of time for easy meal prepping. They can be assembled and stuffed in advance, then refrigerated or frozen until ready to cook.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breasts remain flavorful, moist, and ready to enjoy whenever you desire. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or enjoying leftovers for lunch, these stuffed chicken breasts are sure to delight your taste buds.