Description
Succulent Parmesan stuffed chicken delivers Mediterranean-inspired comfort with rich cheesy goodness. Crispy exterior and juicy interior promise a delightful culinary journey you won’t forget.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
Cheese:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks for sealing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a crisp 375F (190C), ensuring optimal cooking environment.
- Combine cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, creating a rich, creamy filling.
- Carefully slice a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast, maintaining the structural integrity of the meat.
- Generously fill each chicken breast with the prepared spinach-cheese mixture, using toothpicks to seal the opening securely.
- Massage the exterior of the chicken breasts with olive oil, then generously coat with paprika, salt, and pepper for enhanced flavor and color.
- Heat a skillet over medium flame and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Carefully transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish, then roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165F (74C).
- Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, ensuring juices redistribute before serving.
Notes
- Carefully slice chicken breasts to create a pocket without cutting through completely, ensuring an even stuffing distribution.
- Toothpicks are crucial for keeping the filling inside and maintaining the chicken’s shape during cooking.
- Use fresh spinach instead of frozen to prevent excess moisture that could make the filling soggy.
- For a low-carb version, replace cheese with dairy-free alternatives or increase herb content for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg