Description
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful spinach, cheese, and walnut filling, then seared to golden perfection. A hearty and satisfying dish with a savory Mediterranean touch.
Ingredients
- 5 ounces frozen spinach, thawed
- 3/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped (divided)
- 6 sun dried tomatoes, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup ricotta
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Drain the spinach thoroughly by placing it in a clean kitchen towel and twisting to remove excess water.
- In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, sun dried tomatoes, parsley, garlic, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the thickest part of each breast, about 3–4 inches wide, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast evenly with the spinach mixture.
- Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 3–5 minutes. Garnish with remaining walnuts, parsley, and sun dried tomatoes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure spinach is well-drained to avoid a watery filling.
- You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese for a richer texture.
- Use toothpicks to secure the chicken if the stuffing spills out.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Sear
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg