feta and spinach stuffed chicken breasts

feta and spinach stuffed chicken breasts
  • If you’re looking for a delicious way too jazz up your dinner routine, you’ve come to the right place! I absolutely love making these feta and spinach stuffed chicken breasts – they’re cheesy, flavorful, and super easy to whip up. Trust me, your taste buds are going to thank you! So, grab your apron and let’s get started!
Cook Time: 19
Prep Time:
Yields:
Calories: 1971

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Feta and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

To create these flavorful feta and spinach stuffed chicken breasts, you won’t need any fancy ingredients.Just some basic items that are likely already in your pantry or fridge! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika: This adds a nice smoky flavor and lovely color.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that pairs perfectly with chicken.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For that delicious garlic kick.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder: It adds a subtle sweetness.
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For a bit of heat.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: A must-have for cooking and adding richness.
  • 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach (thawed and squeezed dry): This is the star of the filling, bringing nutrition and flavor.
  • 2 ounces feta cheese in brine, crumbled: The creamy, salty goodness that makes this dish stand out.
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens up the filling!
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions: Adds a fresh bite.
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic: As more garlic is always an excellent idea.
  • ½ teaspoon dried dill: This herb enhances the overall taste with its distinctive flavor.

Gather these ingredients together, and you’re all set to create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!

Step-by-Step instructions for Making Feta and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps to make your feta and spinach stuffed chicken breasts:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
  1. pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the spice rub stick better.
  1. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast. Carefully slice a horizontal slit in the thickest part, but not all the way thru.
  1. create the spice rub: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, salt, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until well combined. Rub this mix all over the chicken breasts.
  1. Make the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, feta, lemon juice, green onions, minced garlic, and dill.Mix until everything is evenly blended.
  1. Stuff each pocket: Take about ¼ cup of the spinach mixture and fill each chicken breast pocket. You want to pack it in, but don’t overstuff.
  1. Secure the pockets: use wooden picks to close the openings of the stuffed chicken breasts, ensuring the filling doesn’t spill out during cooking.
  1. Sear the chicken: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re golden and the spices are fragrant.
  1. Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which should take about 15 minutes.
  1. Remove picks: Once cooked, take the chicken out and carefully discard the wooden picks.

Now you’re ready to savor these delightful stuffed chicken breasts! Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce and sides.

 feta and spinach stuffed chicken breasts

Serving and Storage Facts for Feta and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Once you’ve crafted these flavorful feta and spinach stuffed chicken breasts,it’s time to enjoy them! This dish serves beautifully at dinner,and it’s just as delightful for meal prep throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

I like to pair these stuffed chicken breasts with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The vibrant flavors of the chicken complement a simple cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. If you want to elevate your meal even further, consider serving them with a homemade tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. It adds a refreshing touch that pairs perfectly with the richness of the feta and spinach filling.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These stuffed chicken breasts will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat,simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through,about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy and prevents it from drying out.

Freezing

for longer storage,you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven for the best results.

Enjoy your delicious stuffed chicken in a variety of ways, whether fresh out of the oven or as tasty leftovers!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Feta and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Making these feta and spinach stuffed chicken breasts is straightforward, but here are some notes and troubleshooting tips to help you achieve the best results.

Common Issues

  • Dry Chicken: If your chicken comes out dry,be sure not to overcook it. Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) helps ensure it’s perfectly cooked without drying it out.
  • Filling Leakage: If your filling leaks out during cooking, try using toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the pockets more tightly. This keeps the delicious spinach and feta mixture inside where it belongs.

tips for Variations

  • Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms, for extra flavor and texture.
  • cheese Alternatives: If feta isn’t your favorite cheese, you can swap it out with goat cheese or ricotta for a different twist on the flavor.

Flavor Boosts

  • Marinate the Chicken: If you have time, marinating the chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for a few hours before cooking can add an extra layer of flavor.

With these notes and tips, you’re set up for success. Enjoy the cooking process and savor your delicious creation!