Looking for a delicious and impressive dish that won’t take hours to prepare? This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken is your answer. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, making it a perfect entrée for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
This recipe is a delightful combination of flavors, with the mild ricotta perfectly complementing the earthy spinach. The result is a dish that’s not only satisfying but also packs a nutritious punch. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds!
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this stuffed chicken recipe is straightforward and promises to be a hit at your dinner table.
Presentation and Aesthetics
The visual appeal of a dish can be as important as the flavors it delivers. In the case of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken, the golden-brown chicken breasts provide a stunning contrast against the vibrant green filling. Each piece is carefully garnished with fresh herbs, enhancing both the color and freshness of the plate.
Plating plays a vital role in creating an inviting atmosphere. A drizzle of marinara sauce not only adds a pop of red but also infuses the dish with an extra layer of flavor. The rustic wooden table background further complements the home-cooked feel, making it an enticing option for family dinners or gatherings.
Flavor Profile
This dish boasts a harmonious blend of flavors. The mild ricotta cheese offers a creamy texture that pairs seamlessly with the earthy notes of fresh spinach. The addition of Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning enhances the depth of flavor, ensuring each bite is satisfying.
The seasoning of the chicken itself is not neglected, providing a savory foundation that elevates the overall taste. Together, these elements create a dish that is both comforting and nourishing, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Preparation Steps
Preparation of this stuffed chicken is relatively straightforward, making it accessible for cooks at any skill level. Starting with the filling, a simple mixture of ricotta, spinach, and spices is all that is needed to create a rich and creamy stuffing.
Care is taken when slicing the chicken breasts to form pockets. This allows for generous stuffing without compromising the integrity of the meat. Searing in an oven-safe skillet ensures a crispy outer layer before baking, sealing in moisture and flavor.
Cooking Time and Tips
With a total time of approximately 45 minutes, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and more elegant occasions. The prep time is a manageable 15 minutes, allowing for a quick transition from kitchen to table.
To achieve the best results, it’s important to monitor the cooking time closely. Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F ensures perfectly cooked chicken, avoiding any risk of dryness.
Nutritional Benefits
This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken not only pleases the palate but also offers several nutritional benefits. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, it makes for a well-rounded meal.
Each serving delivers approximately 360 calories, featuring 40 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste. The spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken, consider pairing it with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables to create a complete meal. The marinara sauce can be served on the side or drizzled over the chicken for added flavor.
This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger feast, making it ideal for both casual get-togethers and formal dining experiences. No matter the occasion, it’s sure to impress and delight all who partake.
Delicious and Nutritious Stuffed Chicken Breast
This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken is a savory dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich filling of creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach. The chicken is seasoned to perfection, offering a juicy and flavorful bite that’s both comforting and nourishing.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Prepare the Chicken: Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket generously with the ricotta and spinach mixture.
- Sear the Chicken: In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Drizzle with marinara sauce if desired, and enjoy your flavorful stuffed chicken!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 360kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
