Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- For the Breading:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for baking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Make the Stuffing:
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture, pressing gently to ensure it’s packed in.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Place flour in a shallow dish, beaten eggs in another dish, and mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, basil, and garlic powder in a third dish.
- Dredge each stuffed chicken breast first in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the breaded chicken breasts and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
This stuffed, breaded chicken is a delicious, crispy main dish filled with creamy cheese and spinach. You can also experiment with different fillings, like sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or prosciutto.