Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly Chicken Breasts: Using a sharp knife, butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open them up like a book and lay them flat.
- Season: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
- Stuff Chicken: Divide the spinach and cheese mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, spreading it over one half of each opened chicken breast.
- Fold and Secure: Fold the other half of the chicken breast over the filling. Use toothpicks to secure the edges closed.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil: Heat olive oil in a large, oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear Chicken: Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Serve: Serve the spinach and cheese stuffed chicken breasts hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken:
- Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness after butterflying for even cooking.
- Secure Well: Use enough toothpicks to keep the filling inside the chicken while it cooks.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the chicken breasts to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest before cutting into it helps retain the juices, making the chicken moist and flavorful.
Enjoy your Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken, a dish that’s sure to impress with its rich flavors and elegant presentation. Perfect for pairing with a side of roasted vegetables, a light salad, or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.