Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken

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🥬 Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken

📖 Description

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful, protein-rich dish featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy blend of ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, garlic, and herbs. The chicken is lightly seasoned, baked until tender, and finished with a golden exterior. This recipe feels elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a healthy weeknight dinner.

⏱️ Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

  • Total Time: ~50 minutes

  • Servings: 4

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Filling

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole or part-skim)

  • 1½ cups fresh spinach, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

  2. Prepare the Filling
    In a skillet, sauté spinach and garlic over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
    In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach mixture, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

  3. Prepare the Chicken
    Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast.
    Season chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

  4. Stuff the Chicken
    Spoon the ricotta-spinach mixture into each chicken pocket. Secure with toothpicks if needed.

  5. Bake
    Place chicken in the baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  6. Rest & Serve
    Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if used.

🌟 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overstuff: Too much filling may leak during baking.

  • Use a thermometer: Prevents overcooking and keeps chicken juicy.

  • Add mozzarella: For extra meltiness.

  • Pan-sear first: Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side before baking for deeper flavor.

  • Make it keto-friendly: Use full-fat ricotta and skip any breadcrumbs.

🧠 Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal

  • Protein: 42 g

  • Fat: 20 g

  • Carbohydrates: 6 g

  • Fiber: 1.5 g

  • Calcium: ~18% DV
    (Values may vary based on ingredients used)

💪 Health Benefits

  • High in Protein: Supports muscle repair and satiety.

  • Rich in Calcium: From ricotta and Parmesan for bone health.

  • Low Carb: Suitable for low-carb and keto-style diets.

  • Nutrient-Dense: Spinach provides iron, magnesium, and antioxidants.

  • Heart-Healthy: Olive oil and lean chicken support cardiovascular health.

❓ Recipe Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

Q: Can I freeze stuffed chicken?
A: Yes. Freeze uncooked or cooked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Roasted vegetables, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a fresh green salad pair perfectly.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Absolutely—just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture first.

Q: How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
A: Avoid overbaking and let it rest after cooking to retain juices.

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