Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast for Dinner
There is something comforting about sitting down to a warm, home-cooked meal at the end of a long day. Baked stuffed chicken breast hits all the right notes. It is hearty, filling, and flavorful without being heavy. This recipe brings together a creamy, cheesy filling tucked inside juicy chicken breasts, finished in the oven until perfectly golden. It tastes like a dish from a fancy restaurant but is actually easy to make in your kitchen.
Stuffed chicken breast is one of those dishes that look impressive but do not require a lot of effort. It is a smart way to dress up plain chicken and turn it into a meal that feels special. Whether you are cooking for your family, planning a romantic dinner at home, or just craving something a little more exciting than grilled chicken, this recipe will deliver.
It also gives you the flexibility to get creative. Once you master the basics, you can try all sorts of delicious fillings, from herbed cheese to sautéed vegetables or even leftover cooked bacon. It bakes in the oven, so you do not have to stand over the stove, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Let’s break it all down, from ingredients to cooking tips, so you can make stuffed chicken breast with confidence and enjoy every bite.
Ingredients Needed
You do not need anything fancy to make this dish. The ingredients are simple, affordable, and easy to find in any grocery store. Together they create a rich, creamy filling and a tender, flavorful chicken breast that is satisfying and full of comfort.
Below is a full list of what you will need for this recipe along with a helpful calorie breakdown.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts | 2 large | 330 |
| Fresh spinach | 1 cup | 7 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 9 |
| Cream cheese | ¼ cup | 200 |
| Mozzarella cheese | ½ cup (shredded) | 168 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon | 3 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 2 |
| Toothpicks or cooking twine | As needed | 0 |
Estimated calories per serving: 450 to 480 depending on the size and cheese used. Makes 2 generous servings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by prepping everything before you begin cooking. Having your ingredients ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s how to make baked stuffed chicken breast step by step.
Turn on your oven and set it to 375°F. This gives you the perfect temperature to cook the chicken all the way through without drying it out.
Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice a pocket into the thickest part of each breast. Be gentle and do not cut all the way through. You just want to create a space for the filling.
In a pan, warm a little olive oil and sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant. Toss in the spinach and cook it until it wilts, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Let it cool a bit before mixing it with the cream cheese and shredded mozzarella in a bowl. Stir everything until it forms a soft, creamy mixture.
Use a spoon to fill each chicken breast with the cheesy spinach mixture. Press the sides together gently and secure the opening with toothpicks or tie it with twine to keep the filling inside while it cooks.
Brush each breast with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika. This gives the outside a nice color and adds a subtle layer of flavor.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. This step is optional but adds a golden crust and locks in moisture.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Check the center with a meat thermometer to make sure it is fully cooked.
After baking, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle and keeps the meat tender and flavorful.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best parts of this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Here are a few ways to switch things up and keep dinner interesting.
You can change the filling by adding sun-dried tomatoes, chopped mushrooms, or cooked bacon for extra flavor. If you like heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or use spicy cheese like pepper jack. Herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme can bring a fresh note to the filling. For a tangy twist, try adding a little feta or goat cheese in place of mozzarella.
If you are cutting carbs, this recipe fits right into a low-carb or keto meal plan. Just avoid adding breadcrumbs or heavy sauces. You can also use smaller chicken breasts for lighter portions or double the filling to make it extra rich.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here is the estimated nutrition per serving. This may vary depending on the size of the chicken and the type of cheese you use.
- Calories: 450 to 480
- Protein: 38 grams
- Total Fat: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4 grams
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sodium: 420 milligrams
This recipe offers a good balance of protein and fat with minimal carbs, making it great for those on low-carb diets.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed chicken breast pairs well with all kinds of sides. If you want to keep it light, serve it with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a fresh green salad. For something heartier, garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables make a perfect match.
You can also slice the chicken and serve it over rice, pasta, or couscous. If you are looking to impress, drizzle the plate with a little basil pesto or a simple lemon butter sauce. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon is all you need to complete the meal.
Conclusion
Baked stuffed chicken breast is the kind of recipe that never gets old. It is simple, satisfying, and versatile enough to fit any mood or occasion. Once you try it, you will see how easy it is to turn everyday ingredients into something that feels special.
You do not need a lot of time or experience in the kitchen to get it right. Just follow the steps, stuff it with what you love, and let the oven do the work. The result is a juicy, golden chicken breast with a creamy center that tastes like comfort in every bite.
Next time you are wondering what to make for dinner, this stuffed chicken is a reliable, crowd-pleasing option. You might even find yourself making it more than once a week.