Spinach & Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a flavorful and elegant dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy filling of spinach and goat cheese. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, offering a delightful blend of savory flavors!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 ounces goat cheese (softened)
• 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Timing

Making Spinach & Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped spinach, cream cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

1. Butterfly Chicken Breasts: Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, but not all the way through, creating a pocket for the filling.
2. Stuff Chicken: Spoon the spinach and goat cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket, then secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine if necessary.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear Chicken: Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 5: Bake

1. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of each chicken breast.
2. Transfer to Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Spinach & Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	35g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	4g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes into the filling for added flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for varied tastes.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Spinach & Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious and healthy meal that combines the rich flavors of goat cheese and fresh spinach. This dish is not only satisfying but also visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for any occasion!