Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken (Print Version)

Juicy chicken filled with spinach, mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan, baked to a golden finish.

# Ingredients:

→ Seasonings

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
03 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
04 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

→ Protein

07 - 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts

→ Cheese Mixture

08 - 4 ounces ricotta cheese
09 - 4 ounces grated mozzarella cheese
10 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

11 - 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh spinach, steamed and squeezed dry
12 - 1 garlic clove, minced

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
02 - In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir until evenly blended.
03 - Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the thickest part of each breast, taking care not to slice through.
04 - Rub the prepared seasoning blend over all sides and inside the pockets of the chicken breasts. Transfer to the refrigerator to marinate until assembly.
05 - In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated mozzarella, grated Parmesan, steamed chopped spinach, minced garlic, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add ground black pepper to taste and mix until fully incorporated.
06 - Remove marinated chicken breasts from the refrigerator. Fill each pocket with the cheese and spinach mixture. Secure openings with toothpicks if necessary.
07 - Arrange stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway for even browning. Alternatively, sear on the stovetop in an oven-safe skillet before baking.
08 - Remove toothpicks before serving. Present hot and accompany with your choice of side.

# Notes:

01 - For enhanced flavor, marinate the seasoned chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes before stuffing and cooking.

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