Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Spinach Filling:
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup cream cheese, softened
¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the chicken breasts dry. Carefully slice a pocket into each breast without cutting all the way through.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2️⃣ Make the Spinach Filling
In a bowl, mix chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
Stir until smooth and well combined.
3️⃣ Stuff the Chicken
Spoon the spinach filling into the chicken pockets.
Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed.
4️⃣ Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
5️⃣ Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).
6️⃣ Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
Slice and serve with your favorite side dish like roasted veggies or mashed potatoes.
⏰ Prep Time: 10 min
🔥 Cooking Time: 20 min
⏳ Total Time: 30 min
