Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Meet the Spinach and Cottage Cheese Chicken—a mouthwatering recipe that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy filling that will have your taste buds dancing! Perfect for a weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party, this dish is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can create a culinary masterpiece that’s both healthy and satisfying. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to bring restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked and chopped spinach to the pan, seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, cottage cheese, and 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Set this mixture aside.
- Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for added flavor.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cottage cheese mixture, ensuring that they are filled generously. You may use toothpicks to secure the opening if necessary.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
- Once the chicken is seared, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each breast. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This will help retain the juices and keep the chicken moist.
- Serve the Spinach and Cottage Cheese Chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time during the week, consider prepping the spinach and cottage cheese mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to stuff the chicken.
- Searing for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! It locks in moisture and adds a beautiful golden crust to the chicken, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Adding a bit of feta or Parmesan to the filling can give it a delightful twist.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Garnish for Appeal: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish’s appearance and add a burst of freshness.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve this dish with a light salad or steamed vegetables to complement the rich flavors of the stuffed chicken.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this fantastic recipe that promises to be a hit at your dinner table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 477kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 72g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 150mg
