Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of our Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast. This delightful dish combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious filling of sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and cream cheese, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Filling

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and browned.

2. Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushrooms and spinach with cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Preparing the Chicken

4. Prep the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, take each chicken breast and cut a pocket into the side, being careful not to slice all the way through.

5. Stuff the Chicken: Generously fill each pocket with the creamy mushroom and spinach mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if needed.

6. Sear the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.

Cooking the Chicken

7. Prepare the Sauce: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add chicken broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

8. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

9. Bake the Chicken: Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the cream sauce over them. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).

Serving

10. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose fresh, organic chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. Opt for seasonal mushrooms for added depth in taste.
• Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish, balancing the creamy texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or fresh basil for varied flavor profiles.

Glossary of Terms

• Sauté: Cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat.
• Stuffing: A mixture of ingredients that is encased in another food item, often used to enhance flavor and moisture.

Further Reading

For a deeper dive into chicken dishes or creamy sauces, check out these articles:

• The Art of Stuffed Chicken Breasts
• Perfecting Your Cream Sauce

This Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that will impress your family and guests alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the flavors and textures, and most importantly, enjoy the cooking process!