If you are looking for a delicious, comforting dinner that feels both indulgent and healthy, you have to try this Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Recipe. It’s a divine combination of tender, juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy, flavorful mix of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and a hint of Parmesan. This dish is perfect for impressing dinner guests or simply treating yourself to a satisfying meal that feels special without being complicated. The rich filling brings a vibrant pop of color and freshness, making every bite an absolute delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet play crucial roles in making the dish shine with flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Each component complements the others in the most delicious way.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect blank canvas for the savory spinach and ricotta filling.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness and a slightly sweet, delicate flavor.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Provides a fresh, earthy taste and vibrant green color to the filling.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty depth that enhances the stuffing.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses a mild punch of aromatic flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the chicken a classic Mediterranean touch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a golden, crispy sear that locks in juices.
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine: Essential for keeping the stuffed chicken secure during cooking.
How to Make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Begin by combining the ricotta cheese, chopped fresh spinach, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Add salt and pepper to season the mixture perfectly. This blend forms the creamy, flavorful core that makes every bite special.
Step 2: Create the Chicken Pockets
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Make sure to cut just deep enough to hold the filling without cutting all the way through. This step requires a bit of patience, but it’s worth it to keep that gorgeous ricotta and spinach mixture nestled inside.
Step 3: Stuff and Secure
Fill each pocket generously with the prepared ricotta and spinach mixture. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to close the pockets securely. This ensures the filling stays inside while cooking and that the chicken retains its juicy texture.
Step 4: Season and Sear
Rub the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with Italian seasoning. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. This step creates a beautiful golden crust that adds texture and flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet directly to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the toothpicks or twine before plating.
How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan or fresh chopped basil on top. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can add brightness and a finishing touch that makes the dish feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This stuffed chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables such as asparagus or carrots, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic. The simplicity of the sides lets the stuffed chicken remain the star of the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, arrange the stuffed chicken breasts on a bed of sautéed spinach or nestle them beside a colorful quinoa salad. You can also slice them crosswise to reveal the gorgeous green and white filling, making your plate look picture-perfect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to remove toothpicks before storing to avoid any mishaps.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let the chicken cool completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps keep the chicken moist without drying it out, preserving that creamy filling.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly before mixing it into the ricotta to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
While ricotta and Parmesan are core to the classic flavor, you can try dairy-free cheese alternatives, but expect some variation in taste and texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is the safest bet—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s cooked through but still juicy.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Definitely! Consider mixing in sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs like basil, or even a little bit of shredded mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it works wonderfully for meal prep. Just refrigerate or freeze portions in advance and reheat as needed for quick, flavorful meals during the week.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my top go-to dishes when I want something comforting, sophisticated, and packed with flavor. It’s easier to make than it looks and will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
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Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, Parmesan, and garlic. The chicken is seared to golden perfection before being baked in the oven, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying main course perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing)
Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined and creamy.
- Create the chicken pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through so the filling stays inside.
- Stuff the chicken: Spoon the prepared spinach ricotta mixture evenly into each chicken pocket. Secure the opening with toothpicks or tie tightly with kitchen twine to keep the filling inside while cooking.
- Season the chicken: Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with Italian seasoning for added flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Bake to finish cooking: Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken breasts into the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and it is cooked through.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and carefully take out the toothpicks or twine before serving. Allow to rest a few minutes for juices to redistribute, then plate and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen spinach (thawed and well-drained) for fresh spinach if preferred.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or fresh basil to the ricotta filling.
