This Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is delightfully savory and bursting with flavor. This indulgent dish marries the tenderness of chicken breast with the richness of gooey melted cheese, creating the best combo of tastes and textures. This meal is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings.
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This post was originally produced in November 2016. It has since been updated.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Flavor Fusion: The combination of creamy, tangy cream cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach creates a rich and indulgent filling that bursts with taste.
- Texture Combo: The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken, offering a blend of textures that's satisfying with every bite.
- Customization: It's a versatile recipe that allows for personalization. You can add various herbs, spices, or even other ingredients to the stuffing mixture to suit individual tastes.
- Ease of Preparation: Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish is relatively simple to prepare.
- Healthier Option: This is a low-carb dish that can be a healthier alternative to heavier, high-carb stuffed dishes. With lean chicken and nutrient-rich spinach, it can be part of a balanced meal.
What Type of Chicken to Use
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts will work best. They offer a good amount of surface area for stuffing and are relatively easy to work with.
Fresh or Frozen Spinach
Using either fresh or frozen spinach is an option when making stuffed chicken. Both have their advantages:
- Fresh Spinach: It offers a vibrant flavor and texture. To use fresh spinach, it's typically wilted down by sautéing or blanching before incorporating it into the stuffing. This method allows you to control the moisture content better.
- Frozen Spinach: It's convenient and often pre-chopped, saving preparation time. Frozen spinach is usually cooked and drained before adding it to the stuffing. However, it can sometimes contain more moisture, so thoroughly squeezing or draining it is essential to prevent excess liquid in the stuffing.
Both options can work well for stuffed chicken; just ensure that if using frozen spinach, excess moisture is removed to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
How to Butterfly/Slice the Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken Breast: Place the chicken breast on a clean flat surface. Ensure it's thawed if previously frozen.
- Hold the Chicken Breast: Using a sharp knife, hold the chicken breast flat on the cutting board with the thicker side facing your non-dominant hand.
- Cut Along the Side: With your knife parallel to the cutting board, start cutting into the thickest part of the chicken breast horizontally, about halfway through its thickness. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Open the Breast: Open the chicken breast like a book by gently lifting the top piece (the thicker side) that's still connected while keeping the bottom side flat against the cutting board. It should resemble a butterfly shape.
- Flatten the Breast: To ensure even thickness, flatten the breast with your hands, a meat mallet, or rolling pin. This step helps create a consistent thickness, making it easier to stuff and roll.
How to Make Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Slice and butterfly the chicken breast.
- Combine cream cheese, spinach, and grated cheese.
- Stuff the cheese mixture into the chicken.
- Season the chicken with spices.
- Bake.
Cook Time/How Long to Bake
The cooking time for stuffed chicken can vary based on factors like the size of the chicken breast and the speed at which your oven cooks. A general guideline is approximately 20-30 minutes. Thicker or larger stuffed chicken breasts might require more time to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How to Tell When it's Finished Cooking
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the stuffed chicken breast. It should register at least 165 degrees to ensure safe consumption.
- Juices: Pierce the thickest part of the chicken with a fork or knife. If the juices run clear and there's no pinkness, it's likely done. However, this method is not as accurate as checking the internal temperature.
- Texture and Firmness: Gently press on the stuffed chicken breast. If it feels firm to the touch and there is no give, it's often a sign that it's cooked through. Overcooked chicken tends to feel dry and stringy.
Learn more about The Right Internal Temperature For Chicken here.
Pre Shredded Cheese
You can use whatever type of cheese you prefer in this recipe. I always recommend you grab blocks of cheese and grate them yourself. Pre-shredded cheese is coated with anti-caking agents, such as potato starch or cellulose, to prevent clumping and make it last longer in the store.
These coatings interfere with the cheese’s ability to melt smoothly and affect the texture of your dishes. When you grate your cheese fresh, it doesn’t have these additives and preservatives, resulting in a more velvety and evenly melted cheese.
Substitution Ideas and Add-Ins
- Mushrooms
- Bacon
- Artichokes
- Sundried Tomatoes
- Almonds
- Cranberries
- Onions
- Black Beans
- Bell Peppers
- Goat Cheese
- Feta
- Ricotta Cheese
- Kale
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored tightly covered and sealed for 3-4 days.
How to Reheat
Reheat in the oven at 325 degrees until warm.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees until warm.
For the stovetop, heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Place the stuffed chicken breast in the skillet and cover it with a lid until warm.
Microwaves can be tricky as they tend to heat unevenly and can easily dry out chicken. Using lower power settings and shorter intervals while checking the temperature frequently will help prevent the chicken from becoming tough or rubbery.
Freezer Tips
Fresh the dish tightly covered and sealed for 2-3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight.
Pair With These Side Dishes
Air Fryer Green Beans
Southern Cinnamon Fried Apples
Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon
Southern Soul Food Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Southern Soul Food Creamed Corn
More Chicken Dinner Recipes
Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich
Dry Rub Chicken Wings
Rotisserie Chicken Enchiladas
Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken Fajitas
Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Want to save this recipe for later?
I'll email it to you, so you can come back to it later! You will also get our free digital cookbook with 30-Minute One-Pot Recipes and weekly recipes and tips.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 20-25 oz skinless chicken breasts This was 2 large chicken breasts for me.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup finely chopped spinach See notes.
- 2 oz cream cheese Softened at room temp. You can also microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- ⅓ cup grated cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup grated mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken breast on a clean flat surface. Using a sharp knife, hold the chicken breast flat on the cutting board with the thicker side facing your non-dominant hand. With your knife parallel to the cutting board, start cutting into the thickest part of the chicken breast horizontally, about halfway through its thickness. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Open the chicken breast like a book by gently lifting the top piece (the thicker side) that’s still connected while keeping the bottom side flat against the cutting board. It should resemble a butterfly shape. To ensure even thickness, flatten the breast with your hands, a meat mallet, or rolling pin. This step helps create a consistent thickness, making it easier to stuff and roll.
- Combine the shredded spinach, cream cheese, and grated cheese in a bowl. Stir and stuff the spinach and cheese mixture into the chicken.
- Season the chicken with the spices.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes until the thickest part of each chicken breast reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Timing will vary based on how thick your chicken breast is. Use a meat thermometer.
- Cut each breast in half and serve.
Video
Notes
- Fresh Spinach: It offers a vibrant flavor and texture. To use fresh spinach, it’s typically wilted down by sautéing or blanching before incorporating it into the stuffing. This method allows you to control the moisture content better.
- Frozen Spinach: It’s convenient and often pre-chopped, saving preparation time. Frozen spinach is usually cooked and drained before adding it to the stuffing. However, it can sometimes contain more moisture, so thoroughly squeezing or draining it is essential to prevent excess liquid in the stuffing.
Nutrition
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
Jess says
To make this truly keto, instead of reduced fat cream cheese, full fat cream cheese should be used instead. Excellent, delicious and easy recipe!
Anonymous says
Where’s the recipe??
staysnatched says
It's right above the area that you typed this comment into.
Traci Johnson says
Delicious!!
staysnatched says
So happy you enjoyed it! I hope you try more recipes!
Anonymous says
Tried this but I let it marinade for 24 hrs with all the seasoning and cooked it the following day . My hubby loved it .
Meg says
Ooooh, that's a great idea.
Jennifer says
That's a good idea. I thought when cooked they were a little dry.
Arnold says
Man I love this recipe, I did the Hasselback and they came out very moist and delicious. I live in KC myself and I,m starting back on the Keto lifestyle after taking a brief hiatus for the holidays and gaining about 20+ lbs in the meantime, but since the new year I've already lost 10 of those lbs and on my way to knocking off the rest of those lbs and inches. So I am so happy to find dishes that not only taste great but also help me to stay in a keto way, Thanks, Yummy
staysnatched says
I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I hope you try out more of my recipes!
Shannon says
So good!!! I had one large breast, cut it in half to stuff it both ways. I did put some garlic powder in the spinach mix. Had some extra spinach mix so I baked it with so Panko on top... I know not keto. But it will good to dip veggies in.
staysnatched says
Sounds amazing!
Phyllis Piner says
I love the spinach chicken it was so yummy thank you. Would love to receive more of your recipes .My husband also love the spinach chicken.
staysnatched says
I'm so glad you loved it! Are you on my email list? You can get more recipes that way. Click here to sign up. https://pages.convertkit.com/d87b4b5063/7293d166f1
Jennifer says
Do you make a side or is the stuffing the side?
staysnatched says
A side salad, mashed cauliflower, broccoli, or asparagus pair wonderfully.
Nancy Van Reeth says
I find some great recipes on your site ~ thank you for that!! But may I ask why you don't put the full nutritional value chart on each recipe? I would so appreciate that!!!
staysnatched says
I do post it for every recipe. Please scroll to the top of the post. It's noted in the same spot for each recipe. I don't use a chart form because of the expense related in purchasing the chart and the associated monthly fees.
Danielle says
This stuffed chicken is very delicious and so easy to make! I marinated mine in Avocado oil and seasonings beforehand and then stuffed them before I baked. Loved it!
staysnatched says
That sounds so good! I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Patty says
This is my new favorite recipe (my husband's, too!)! I make it at least once per week. It is so delicious, quick, and easy!! Thank you for sharing it!
staysnatched says
I'm so glad you both like it!
Belinda says
I made this tonight and it was a hit! DELICIOUS! I will definitely be making this again. I also added roasted garlic and chopped up some red onion in the spinach. I do need to season the chicken a little more before baking, but it was really tasty.
staysnatched says
Wonderful! So glad you enjoyed it!
Sarah says
This is a super easy recipe that I absolutely love. It works with different types of cheeses too, my go-to is shredding a block of Colby Jack. This works for having small kids because I half the recipe and stuff one chicken breast for myself and then make a plain chicken breast for the neophytes.
staysnatched says
haha I love the kid-friendly tips!
Keri says
These were outstanding! We eat a ton of chicken so it’s hard for me to find ways to keep my bf interested in another chicken dinner - but these were a winner! I didn’t have chicken seasoning so I just made up the seasoning with what I had and added some red pepper flakes to the mixture for a small kick. They came out perfect! Thank you! (Parchment paper is key for an easy cleanup!)
staysnatched says
Yes, I love using parchment paper!
Lex says
So SO good, my toddler ate every piece on her plate too! I cant wait to try more of your recipes!
staysnatched says
I love when the kids can enjoy the recipes!
Marisol Merced-Rivera says
This recipe was a hit in my house this week!!!!! I'm talking about everyone in the house including the children were wanting more!! Super easy and detailed recipe!! I added sazon to my seasonings and minced garlic to the filling. This was such a hit, that I had to fight to save a serving for lunch.
staysnatched says
I love hearing it was a hit!
Natalie says
Made this for dinner tonight (hasselback method because I’m lazy), it was like eating spinach dip for dinner— we loved it! I roasted some broccoli alongside the chicken and it made for an easy, hands off dinner once it was all in the oven.
staysnatched says
I love the hasselback method!
Erica says
I made this for dinner last night. Today I offered mu daughter left over pizza for lunch and she responded with "How about the spinach chicken from last night instead?". It will always be OK with me to eat spinach over pizza, Kid. I guess that means she really liked it.
staysnatched says
I love when I can impress the kids!
Kolaylezzet says
Thanks for this different chicken recipe.
staysnatched says
You're welcome! I hope you enjoyed it!
Patricia Pickens says
WHERE IS THE RECIPE???
staysnatched says
Directly above where you typed this comment.
Heather says
Great dinner! Everyone loved it!
staysnatched says
I love when I can please everyone!
Lindsey says
YUM! So easy to make and so delicious! We paired this with some air fried veggies and it was the perfect quick meal to make during a busy week. Thanks Brandi!
staysnatched says
You're welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Sheri says
Is this gluten free?
staysnatched says
I'm not gluten free so I don't typically research that.
Hanna says
My first time trying a recipe from Brandi and I will definitely be trying more! As someone else mentioned, I also added a little seasoning to the spinach/cheese mixture. Huge hit at my house! Can’t wait to try more Stay Snatched recipes!
staysnatched says
Wonderful! I hope you try more recipes.
Kari says
Just made this tonight, really delicious and easy to prepare. Brandi, your recipes are so good, I love coming back here to see what else you have in store, thank you!
staysnatched says
You're welcome! I'm glad to hear it!
Grace says
Thank you for this recipe! It was delicious and I’m definitely making it again. I tried the hasselback method, with spillage from the filling, and it worked great.
staysnatched says
Wonderful! I'm so glad you enjoyed the recipe.
Sherita Brown says
This was one of the best stuff chicken I’ve had!!!! The recipe was simple & easy! My chicken was super moist. Was a hit with my family!
staysnatched says
Awesome! I'm glad you enjoyed the recipe.
Alissa Eaton says
Making this! What side do you pair this with?
staysnatched says
I eat vegetables and salads.
Meg says
Quite easy to make and delicious as well! Thanks for sharing!
staysnatched says
You're welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Kasey says
I was excited to try this recipe when I saw the the post on Instagram. I made it tonight for dinner and it was SO good! I typically shy away from oven baked chicken recipes because they tend to be on the bland side, but I know how Brandi is all about flavor. This recipe did not disappoint!
staysnatched says
Yes! Flavor is so important!
Kristin Walker-Smith says
Very filling. Quick and easy. Good to add into rotation of weekly meal prep options.
staysnatched says
Perfect for meal prep!
Mariana says
Great recipe. Love that is such low calories. Very easy to make. I didn't have thick enough/large enough pieces so I just folded them over and toothpicked them. Worked great. Will have to try more recipes!!! Also, I really enjoy your Beyoncé music on your Instagram stories 🙂
staysnatched says
haha thank you! I'm glad you enjoy it.
Erica Martinez says
This recipe is so delicious and perfect for a quick weeknight meal! I pair it with oven roasted broccoli and it always hits the spot.
staysnatched says
I love that pairing!
Wendy says
Delicious easy recipe! I will be trying your broccoli cheese soup in the next few days!
staysnatched says
Thank you! I hope you enjoy it.
Erica says
This hit all the boxes - quick, easy, uses things I almost always have on hand, and most importantly...
D E L I C I O U S !
staysnatched says
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed it!
Leah says
Loved it! Will definitely make again!
staysnatched says
So glad you enjoyed it!
Sophia Lall says
Do yourself a favor and make
this recipe. It’s so simple but SO satisfying. It’s an easy way to get a protein fix and use that spinach you promised yourself you’d eat this week. My entire family loved this stuffed chicken, and I will definitely have to keep it in the rotation.
staysnatched says
Yay! Love to hear it.
Kylee says
Searched low carb keto chicken ideas for dinner. I had everything I needed to try this so I have it a go. It came out soooo delicious , it’s now my go to receive . Who would of thought cream cheese and chicken would go so good together. I used Lawry seasoning and paprika!!
staysnatched says
Wonderful! I'm so glad you enjoyed the recipe.
Jen says
This chicken recipe is delicious! It’s become a weekly staple for us. It’s quick to make and is something we truly look forward to cooking and eating for dinner. Thank you so much for another fantastic recipe!
staysnatched says
You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed it.
Tori says
This is another amazing stuffed chicken recipe!! I like to make this to have for lunch for a couple of days during the week.
staysnatched says
Wonderful! Glad you enjoyed it.
Kristal De La Paz says
One of my go to chicken recipes! It turns out flavorful and moist every time!!
staysnatched says
Awesome! I love to hear it.
Wendy says
I loved loved this recipe. It was easy and very flavorful. My mom even loves it and she don’t really like low carb anything. Keep giving us great recipes.
staysnatched says
Wonderful! So glad you enjoyed it!
Sara says
Such a great and simple recipe! Paired it with the potato wedges for dinner tonight. They will both definitely be repeats in our house. Our plates looked like we were eating at a restaurant. Thanks, Brandi!!
staysnatched says
I love that combo!
Shannan says
Holy smokes was this recipe amazing! I did not tweak a thing, other than to watch the cooking time as my chicken breasts were thinner than normal. It was gooey and delish and just the right amount of flavor. I am DEFINITELY adding this to my normal meal planning rotation! Seriously… make this recipe!!
staysnatched says
haha! I love to hear that.
Rochelle B. says
Brandi, this was absolutely delicious! I couldn’t stop eating it. This was very easy to make and will definitely be in my rotation!
staysnatched says
Glad to hear it will be in the rotation!
Collier Lewis says
Chicken is so versatile and this recipe is quick and packed with flavor! I added some chopped up artichoke hearts to the mix since I had a jar in my pantry. So so so good! Quick recipe with room to add whatever you like! Pair with some veggies and you’ve got a quick tasty meal!
staysnatched says
That sounds so good!
Marilyn says
This was wonderful turned out so good. Do you know if it can be frozen?
staysnatched says
Yes it can.
Erica Martinez says
This recipe is so easy and full of flavor! It makes for a perfect weeknight dinner and you can make extra for lunches. I typically make broccoli on the side to make it a full meal.
staysnatched says
I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Trish S says
You know a recipe is great when the whole office is asking you what you’re heating up for lunch cause it smells so damn good.
Add a couple gloves of minced garlic into the spinach mixture if you love garlic as much as I do - it’s a great addition!
staysnatched says
haha! That's so true.
Emily says
I had other plans for dinner, but this popped up in my email and I had all the ingredients so I had to try it! Did not disappoint, so delicious and easy, it was a hit with my family.
staysnatched says
Glad it was a hit!
Amy says
You’ve become my go to for planning meals for my family. When my kids find out it is one of your recipes, they get excited because these recipes do not disappoint! This one is delicious too! Thanks for creating and sharing such great recipes.
staysnatched says
Thank you! I love hearing that!
Julie k says
So tastey and easy. My husband doesn't like Spinach but loved this. I added garlic salt to cream cheese mixture. Phenomenal.
staysnatched says
awesome. Glad to hear it.