Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breasts

By Hannah Reilly

 Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Chicken:

•       4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

•       1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

•       1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

•       1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

•       2 cloves garlic, minced

•       1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

•       Salt and pepper to taste

•       Olive oil for cooking

For the Seasoning Blend:

•       1 teaspoon dried oregano

•       1 teaspoon dried thyme

•       1 teaspoon paprika

•       Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:

•       Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

•       Butterfly the chicken breasts by making a horizontal cut through the thickest part, leaving one edge intact, so you can open them like a book.

2. Make the Spinach and Feta Filling:

•       In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:

•       Divide the spinach and feta filling evenly among the chicken breasts, placing it on one side of each butterflied chicken breast.

•       Close the chicken breasts over the filling, securing them with toothpicks if needed.

4. Season the Chicken:

•       In a small bowl, mix together the dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a seasoning blend.

•       Rub the seasoning blend over the stuffed chicken breasts, coating them evenly.

5. Sear the Chicken:

•       Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.

•       Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust.

6. Finish in the Oven:

•       Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish.

•       Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

7. Serve:

•       Once the spinach and feta stuffed chicken breasts are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.

•       Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and elegant Mediterranean style Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken! This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or any time you want a flavorful and impressive dish.