Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken (Low-carb, Keto)

If you’re on the lookout for a deliciously satisfying dish that fits perfectly into your low-carb or keto lifestyle, look no further than this Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and cheeses, making each bite a delightful experience. Not only is this meal packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or even for impressing guests. Let’s dive into this culinary delight!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Flavor Explosion: The combination of cream cheese, spinach, and spices creates a rich and savory filling.
– Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet without sacrificing taste.
– Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps, you can have this dish on the table in no time.
– Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours.

What You’ll Gather

• 44 oz chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy stuffing.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a subtle heat.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for extra flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a hint of warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• For the filling:
• 2 cups fresh spinach: Chopped, or 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry.
• 4 oz cream cheese: At room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor.
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully.
• 1 tbsp minced garlic: For aromatic goodness.
• 1/4 tsp pepper: To complement the filling.
• Salt to taste: Adjust according to preference.

Tools of the Trade

• Oven: Preheat to get the chicken perfectly cooked.
• Baking dish: To hold the stuffed chicken while it bakes.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
• Knife and cutting board: For prepping the chicken and spinach.
• Meat tenderizer or rolling pin: To flatten the chicken breasts for easier stuffing.

Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken (Low-carb, Keto): How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach), cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth mixture.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Take your chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Use a meat tenderizer or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly and make stuffing easier. Season both sides of the chicken with chili powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Divide the spinach and cheese mixture among the chicken breasts, placing it in the center of each. Carefully fold the chicken over the filling, tucking the edges in if necessary to keep the filling from spilling out. You can secure the chicken with toothpicks if desired.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish. Bake for about 25-30 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.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the filling intact. Serve it warm with a side of your favorite low-carb veggies or salad. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!

No-Store Runs Needed

• Spinach: Fresh or frozen, both work wonderfully.
• Cheeses: Cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella are kitchen staples.
• Spices: Chili powder and Italian seasoning can often be found in most pantries.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are usually available in bulk.

Chef’s Notes

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. If you’re a fan of herbs, fresh basil or parsley can also be mixed in for added freshness. This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses or even add sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes to the filling for a Mediterranean twist.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Leftover Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it into the filling.

What can I serve with this stuffed chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken is perfect for meal prepping. Just store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

See You at the Table

This Cream Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience you won’t forget. With its creamy filling and tender chicken, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish will impress. Happy cooking, and see you at the table!