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Juicy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Mozzarella

juicy stuffed chicken breast - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring thick chicken breasts stuffed with fresh spinach and melted mozzarella cheese, seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs for a juicy, flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
  • 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the chicken breasts

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add fresh spinach and cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then let cool slightly.
  3. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally about ¾ of the way through to create a pocket. Season inside and out with salt and pepper.
  4. Stuff each chicken breast pocket evenly with the spinach mixture and top with mozzarella. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
  5. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place stuffed breasts seam side down and sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Flip and sear the other side for 3 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan with a lid, and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning once halfway through, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature and cheese is melted.
  8. Remove chicken from pan and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use a sharp knife to carefully slice the chicken breasts to avoid cutting all the way through. Pat chicken dry before seasoning for better sear. Let chicken rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Rest chicken after cooking for 5 minutes to keep it juicy. If no lid is available, tent with foil while cooking to retain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed chicken breast, spinach, mozzarella, easy dinner, quick recipe, weeknight meal, Italian seasoning, juicy chicken