This Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach and feta mixture. Baked to perfection, this meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or a healthy meal prep option. Packed with protein, vitamins, and Mediterranean flavors, this dish is both nutritious and delicious!
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For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Spinach and Feta Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup (100 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup (60 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach and Feta Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes), then remove from heat.
- In a bowl, mix the wilted spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
- Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture.
- Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Step 4: Season and Bake
- Rub the chicken with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or quinoa for a complete meal!
Notes
- Make it low-carb: Serve with a side of cauliflower rice.
- Add extra flavor: Top with a drizzle of lemon juice or balsamic glaze.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why This Recipe Works
The spinach and feta filling keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, while the seasoning adds a savory depth. Baking ensures a tender, juicy texture without drying out the meat.
Conclusion
This Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s packed with Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe is a winner! Try it today and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal! 🍗🥗✨
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach and feta filling and stuff the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance. Store the stuffed chicken, covered, in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply take the chicken out of the fridge, season, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. You can also bake the chicken completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating it in the oven or microwave.
What substitutions can I make for the ingredients in this recipe?
You can substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangier flavor, using the same amount (½ cup). If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use ricotta cheese, but drain it well first to avoid a watery filling, using about ¼ cup. Fresh spinach can be replaced with frozen spinach; be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the filling. For the seasonings, you can adjust the amounts to your taste or add other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
How do I know when the Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken is perfectly cooked?
The chicken is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which you can check with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast. The chicken should also be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear, not pink. Visually, the chicken will be golden brown on the outside. If the chicken is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Can I double or scale up this Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or scale up this recipe. If doubling, you may need to use two baking dishes or a larger one. Ensure the chicken breasts are not overcrowded in the dish. The baking time might increase slightly, so check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. For larger quantities, you might also need to increase the amount of spinach and feta filling proportionally, ensuring the ratio remains consistent for optimal flavor.
What are the nutritional benefits of this Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken?
This Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken is packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. Feta cheese provides calcium and protein. The olive oil contributes healthy fats. Overall, this dish offers a balanced meal with vitamins, minerals, and a good source of protein, making it a healthy and satisfying choice.
Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken
This delightful recipe combines tender baked chicken with the rich flavors of spinach and feta cheese.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 2 cups spinach fresh or frozen, thawed
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and stuff with spinach mixture.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Notes
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
