Ina Garten Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe
Ina Garten Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe is juicy, flavorful and perfect for family dinners. This dish features chicken breasts filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture and baked to golden perfection.
Equipment
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or small spatula
- Aluminum foil (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken breasts – 4 pieces
- Cream cheese – 4 oz softened
- Spinach – 1 cup cooked and chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves minced
- Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup grated
- Mozzarella cheese – ½ cup shredded
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Paprika – ½ teaspoon
- Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon chopped
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This prevents chicken from sticking.
Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, spinach, garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella, salt, pepper and parsley. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Cut the Chicken
- Use a knife to make a horizontal slit in each chicken breast. Create a pocket without cutting all the way through.
Stuff the Chicken
- Spoon the cheese and spinach mixture into each chicken pocket. Press edges gently to seal. Ensure the filling stays inside while baking.
Season the Chicken
- Brush chicken with olive oil. Sprinkle paprika, salt and pepper evenly on top. This adds flavor and gives a golden color.
Bake the Chicken
- Place stuffed chicken in the prepared baking dish. Cover loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Optional Broil for Color
- Remove foil and broil for 2–3 minutes if you want a golden top. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Serve the Chicken
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or rice.
Notes
- Pat chicken dry for better sear and flavor.
- Use fresh spinach for vibrant taste and color.
- Seal the chicken pocket well to keep filling inside.
- Do not overcook; chicken stays juicy at 165°F internal temperature.
- Add herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor.