Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Filling and Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper if needed (feta is already salty).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Place a chicken breast on a cutting board, and with your hand flat on top, carefully slice horizontally into the thickest side to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Season the entire outside of each chicken breast with this mixture.
- Carefully spoon about a quarter of the spinach and feta filling into the pocket of each chicken breast. Don't overstuff. Secure the opening with 2-3 toothpicks to keep the filling from leaking out during cooking.
Sear and Bake
- Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. This step is crucial for flavor and a juicy result.
- Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Remember to remove the toothpicks before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Don't Overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the chicken pockets, as the filling can ooze out during cooking.
- Even Thickness: For more even cooking, you can gently pound the thicker end of the chicken breast with a meat mallet before cutting the pocket.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serving Suggestion: This stuffed chicken breast pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, a side salad, quinoa, or creamy mashed potatoes.
