Artichoke Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy, cheesy blend of artichoke hearts and spinach, baked until golden brown. It's a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly easy to make at home.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- a.Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a medium bowl, prepare the filling by combining the softened cream cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Carefully cut a deep pocket into the thickest side of each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through. Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with the remaining 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and paprika.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Evenly divide the spinach artichoke filling among the 4 chicken breasts, stuffing it into the pockets. Secure the opening of each pocket with one or two toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- 5
Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat
- a.Once hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- 6
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven
- a.Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
- 7
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes
- a.This allows the juices to redistribute. Remember to remove the toothpicks before slicing and serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest filling, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing.
- 2Do not overstuff the chicken pockets. A few tablespoons per breast is sufficient to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
- 3Searing the chicken before baking is crucial for a golden-brown crust and helps to lock in moisture, keeping the chicken tender.
- 4A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness without drying out the chicken.
- 5If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken in a regular pan and then transfer it to a greased baking dish to finish in the oven.
Adapt it for your goals.
Make it Spicy
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese filling for a spicy kick.
Add a Tangy TwistAdd a Tangy Twist
Mix 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained) into the filling for a tangy, savory flavor boost.
Cheese VariationsCheese Variations
Swap the mozzarella for other good melting cheeses like provolone, fontina, or a four-cheese Italian blend.
Herbaceous FlavorHerbaceous Flavor
Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or chives to the filling for a fresh, herby note.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Protein Powerhouse
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Spinach provides essential vitamins like K, A, and C, while artichoke hearts offer fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving contains approximately 480-520 calories, depending on the size of the chicken breast and the exact amounts of cheese used.