This Cheesy Spinach & Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a cheesy, rich filling of spinach and sundried tomatoes. Not only is it simple, but it also adds a gourmet touch to your dinner table. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Chicken Recipe
There’s no denying that chicken can get a bit repetitive, but this Cheesy Spinach & Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken is here to shake things up! This dish is:
- Low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Incredibly moist, tender, and packed with flavor.
- Made with just six ingredients.
- Quick to prepare and cook.
Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this delectable dish.
Cheesy Spinach & Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken Recipe (Low Carb & Delicious)
Six Simple Ingredients
You don’t need a long list of ingredients for this recipe. In fact, this Stuffed Chicken calls for just six basic items, many of which you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts – Choose large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Fresh spinach – Adds a burst of flavor and nutrients.
- Sundried tomatoes – Packed with tangy sweetness.
- Feta cheese – Adds a salty, tangy kick to the filling.
- Garlic – For that aromatic punch.
- Olive oil – Used for both cooking and marinating the chicken.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach & Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting a slit into the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you just need enough space to stuff your ingredients. This pocket will hold the cheesy spinach and sundried tomato filling.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is key to keeping it flavorful and moist. Prepare a simple marinade using olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least two hours, but for best results, leave it overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavor it will absorb.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the delicious filling. Sauté the spinach in olive oil until wilted, then mix in the sundried tomatoes and feta cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory, cheesy filling that perfectly complements the chicken.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Once your chicken is marinated, it’s time to stuff it. Carefully spoon the spinach, sundried tomato, and feta mixture into the pocket you created earlier. Don’t overstuff—just enough to fill the cavity without overflowing.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Then, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Common Questions About This Cheesy Spinach & Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken
How Do You Stuff Chicken?
Stuffing chicken is simpler than it seems! After creating a pocket in the chicken breast, carefully spoon the filling inside, making sure not to overstuff. If you have any trouble keeping the filling inside, you can secure the chicken with toothpicks.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least two hours. If you have the time, marinate it overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach?
Fresh spinach is preferred, but if you only have frozen spinach on hand, you can use it. Make sure to thaw and drain the spinach before adding it to the filling to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?
For this recipe, chicken breasts are ideal because they’re large enough to create a pocket for the filling. Chicken thighs won’t work as well for stuffing, but you could adapt the recipe by layering the filling between the thighs instead.
Tips for Success
- Use a Sharp Knife: When cutting the pocket into the chicken, use a sharp knife to avoid tearing the meat.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Secure with Toothpicks: If needed, secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the stuffing intact while cooking.
What to Serve with Cheesy Spinach & Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken
This flavorful stuffed chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Creamed spinach – For an extra dose of greens.
- Roasted vegetables – Such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Mashed potatoes – Creamy and comforting.
- Zucchini noodles – For a low-carb alternative to pasta.
- Pasta with feta and sundried tomatoes – To complement the flavors of the stuffed chicken.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to refrigerate the chicken within two hours of cooking to prevent any bacterial growth.
Reheating Leftovers
You can reheat the stuffed chicken in the microwave, oven, or on the stove. For best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the stuffed chicken before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, place the stuffed and marinated chicken breasts in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after cooking, allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
Substitutions & Variations
Alternative Cheeses
While feta is a great choice for this recipe, you can also use other cheeses that melt well. Here are some alternatives:
- Mozzarella – For a milder flavor and gooey texture.
- Cottage cheese – A lighter option with a subtle taste.
- Queso fresco – Another tangy option that pairs well with sundried tomatoes.
Add Some Heat
If you like a bit of spice, try adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
This Cheesy Spinach & Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners. It’s simple, quick, and delivers a rich, cheesy flavor that will satisfy any craving. Plus, with its low-carb content, it fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy!
Cheesy Spinach & Sundried Tomato Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3/4 cup Kraft Sun Dried Tomato Vinaigrette Dressing & Marinade
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup spinach roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts in the dressing for 2-3 hours.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Carefully cut chicken horizontally, but not all the way through.
- Open chicken breasts and layer on sundried tomatoes, spinach, feta, and mozzarella.
- Fold the top of the chicken breast back over the filling and pin the opening shut with a few toothpicks.
- Sear meat in an oiled cast iron pan until golden on both sides.
- Cover and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
- ENJOY!
