Spinach & Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Why Make This Recipe

Spinach & Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Breasts is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh taste of spinach and the sweet flavor of cranberries, all wrapped in juicy chicken. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy yet flavorful meal. It not only looks impressive but also tastes amazing, making it great for family dinners or special occasions.

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How to Make Spinach & Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Ingredients:

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (About 6 ounces each.)
• 1 cup fresh spinach (Chopped.)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (Softened.)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (Chopped.)
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (Minced.)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (Optional.)
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, cream cheese, dried cranberries, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and thyme (if using). Mix until well combined.
4. Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Place a generous spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each breast.
5. Carefully fold the sides of the chicken over the filling and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Once cooked, remove the toothpicks or twine, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.

How to Serve Spinach & Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Breasts

You can serve these stuffed chicken breasts with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad. They are also delicious on their own, so feel free to enjoy them as is.

How to Store Spinach & Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Breasts

If you have leftovers, place the stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Spinach & Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Breasts

• Make sure to chop the spinach finely so it mixes well with the other ingredients.
• Don’t skip the searing step; it adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy.
• Feel free to experiment with other cheeses or herbs based on your taste.

Variation

You can switch up the filling by adding ingredients like feta cheese or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor. For a more hearty version, include chopped walnuts or pine nuts.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using, so it doesn’t add excess moisture to the filling.

2. How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and filling in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

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