Name: Spinach Herb Baked Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil

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If you’re searching for a recipe that will impress at any dinner table while still being weeknight-friendly, then Spinach Herb Baked Chicken is about to become your new go-to dish. Imagine juicy, golden-baked chicken breasts bursting with a creamy spinach and herb stuffing, kissed with Italian flavors and gooey cheese—this recipe truly delivers comfort and elegance with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this wonderfully simple technique transforms a handful of wholesome ingredients into something that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant. Spinach Herb Baked Chicken is a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again!

Spinach Herb Baked Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Spinach Herb Baked Chicken is how each ingredient works to bring texture, color, and a flavor punch to the final dish. Don’t skip or skimp—the sum of these essential parts is pure magic!

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless buys are best for easy stuffing and even cooking.
Fresh Spinach: Gives a vibrant color and a juicy, earthy bite that makes the filling irresistible.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates that indulgent, silky center—it’s what makes the filling so luscious.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey goodness inside the chicken for a cheesy stretch in every slice.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will infuse your filling with aromatic richness that can’t be beaten.
Dried Basil: Adds that signature Italian note and bright, herbal aroma.
Dried Thyme: A hint of woodsy, peppery flavor that rounds out the herbs beautifully.
Onion Powder: A dash of savory sweetness to balance the creaminess of the filling.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors in this recipe—don’t forget to season both the chicken and stuffing.
Black Pepper: Just a pinch gives the dish subtle warmth without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Olive Oil: For that perfect golden, savory crust when you sear the chicken before baking.

How to Make Spinach Herb Baked Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Creamy Spinach Herb Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s ready when you are. While the oven heats, combine finely chopped fresh spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, dried basil, thyme, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir it well until the mixture is thoroughly blended and creamy—a spoon should almost stand up in it! This easy filling is packed with flavor and is the real heart of Spinach Herb Baked Chicken.

Step 2: Cut Pockets in the Chicken Breasts

Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket horizontally into the thicker side of each breast. Try your best not to slice all the way through! The goal is to create just enough space for a generous scoop of spinach and herb filling, making every bite juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Spoon the spinach herb mixture evenly into each chicken pocket. You want them stuffed to the brim, but not so much that the filling spills out during cooking. If needed, gently secure the opening with toothpicks—this handy trick helps keep all that creamy goodness inside where it belongs.

Step 4: Sear for Extra Flavor

Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they develop a golden, slightly crispy exterior. This quick step locks in juices and starts the flavor party before the chicken even hits the oven!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the seared, stuffed chicken breasts into a baking dish (or keep them in your oven-safe skillet if you have one). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the filling is bubbly. When done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to keep it juicy before you slice and serve this glorious Spinach Herb Baked Chicken.

How to Serve Spinach Herb Baked Chicken

Garnishes

Freshness is the final touch! Sprinkle with a bit of extra chopped basil or parsley, and for a cheesy flourish, add grated Parmesan right after baking. A squeeze of lemon can also brighten everything beautifully.

Side Dishes

Spinach Herb Baked Chicken is amazing alongside roasted vegetables, a classic Caesar salad, or even garlic mashed potatoes. For a lighter meal, try it over a bed of zoodles or next to quinoa—let your cravings decide!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re getting fancy, slice the breasts into thick medallions and fan them on a platter. The dramatic green and white swirl inside makes for a stunning presentation. Or serve atop creamy polenta for a truly special meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spinach Herb Baked Chicken stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The filling remains delectably creamy and the flavors often deepen overnight!

Freezing

Wrap cooled, individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator for the juiciest results.

Reheating

For a quick meal, reheat gently in the oven at 325°F, covered, until hot through—usually about 15 minutes. Microwaving works too, but the chicken stays juicier if you add a splash of broth and cover the dish first.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all the excess moisture so your filling stays rich and creamy, not watery.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead?

Yes! You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to sear and bake.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you’re looking to lighten things up, substitute Greek yogurt or a light ricotta. This will still give a creamy texture but with a bit of tang or extra protein.

Can I make Spinach Herb Baked Chicken dairy-free?

Sure thing! Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded plant-based cheese alternatives. The herbs and spinach will make sure there’s still plenty of flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Check with a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F. The juices will also run clear and the filling will be hot and bubbly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a dinner win everyone will rave about, it’s time to try Spinach Herb Baked Chicken. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a staple, with a satisfying flavor and easy prep that will keep you coming back. I can’t wait for you to taste how special this dish really is—happy cooking!

Spinach Herb Baked Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal with this Spinach Herb Baked Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts are stuffed with a creamy spinach and herb mixture, then baked to perfection. This dish is easy to make and sure to impress your family or guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Spinach Filling:

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Other:

1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F.
Prepare Spinach Mixture: Mix chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic, basil, thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Stuff Chicken: Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with spinach mixture. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Sear Chicken: Sear stuffed chicken breasts in olive oil in a skillet until golden.
Bake: Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.