Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, whether I’m cooking for friends or just for myself. The blend of fresh spinach, creamy feta, and tender chicken breasts combines for a meal that’s both beautiful and delicious. I find that adding a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end really lifts the flavors, making it a standout dish. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, so I can spend more time enjoying the company of my guests.

Olivia

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-30T03:21:32.027Z

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When I first tried making Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken, I was amazed by the flavor combination. The creamy feta melds beautifully with the sautéed spinach, creating a stuffing that adds a delicious twist to ordinary chicken. I also experimented with different herbs and spices, and I found that a hint of garlic and a dash of nutmeg really elevate the filling.

Another tip I learned is to let the chicken rest after baking. This simple step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. I will never make ordinary chicken again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Juicy chicken breast filled with savory spinach and feta.
  • Healthy and satisfying, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
  • Easy to make ahead and reheat for quick meals.

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of spinach and feta not only provides a flavorful filling but also an array of nutrients. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron, which can enhance your energy levels. Feta cheese contributes a creamy texture and tangy flavor, balancing well with the earthiness of spinach. Together, they create a filling that is both delicious and nutritious, perfect for a wholesome meal.

When it comes to chicken, choosing high-quality, boneless, skinless chicken breasts is crucial for the best texture. Look for breasts that are plump and slightly shiny. If you're pressed for time or want to simplify prep, consider using chicken thighs, which are juicier and can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Making a pocket in the chicken breasts requires a gentle touch; use a sharp knife and make a careful incision along the thickest part. Aim for a deep pocket to hold more filling without breaking through the sides. This technique not only helps maintain the juiciness of the chicken but also allows the filling to infuse its flavors throughout the meat during cooking.

Baking the stuffed chicken at the right temperature is essential for achieving perfectly cooked meat. Always preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and check for doneness using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C). This way, you're guaranteed juicy chicken that isn't dried out.

Ingredients

Stuffing Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Chicken Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Make sure to rinse and dry the spinach thoroughly before using it to avoid excess moisture in the stuffing.

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and mix in the feta cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and oregano. With a sharp knife, make a pocket in each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Stuff the Chicken

Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and feta mixture, securing the opening with toothpicks if necessary.

Bake

Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet and sprinkle with lemon zest. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve

Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Serving this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complements its flavors perfectly.

Pro Tips

  • For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the stuffing mixture.

Making Ahead and Storage

This Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken can easily be made ahead of time. Prepare the stuffed chicken and place it in an airtight container before baking. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you're considering freezing, wrap each stuffed breast tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake; this method keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a light salad or roasted vegetables to complement the flavors of the stuffed chicken. A side of quinoa or rice can also add a hearty element that balances the meal. For a Mediterranean touch, consider serving it with a side of tzatziki or a lemon-dill yogurt sauce.

If you'd like to add a twist, try swapping the spinach for sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. Each variation brings a unique flavor profile to the dish, allowing for customization based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just be sure to maintain the balance of moisture and flavor in the filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the chicken breasts a few hours in advance. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

→ What can I do with leftover chicken?

Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s delicious in salads or wraps!

→ Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked, stuffed chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when you're ready.

→ Is there a substitute for feta cheese?

If you don’t have feta, goat cheese or ricotta can be a great alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

I absolutely love making Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, whether I’m cooking for friends or just for myself. The blend of fresh spinach, creamy feta, and tender chicken breasts combines for a meal that’s both beautiful and delicious. I find that adding a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end really lifts the flavors, making it a standout dish. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, so I can spend more time enjoying the company of my guests.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Olivia

Recipe Type: Homestyle Comfort Plates

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Stuffing Ingredients

  1. 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  2. 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Chicken Ingredients

  1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. Salt and pepper for seasoning
  3. 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  4. 1 teaspoon dried oregano

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and mix in the feta cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Step 02

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and oregano. With a sharp knife, make a pocket in each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 03

Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and feta mixture, securing the opening with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 04

Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet and sprinkle with lemon zest. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 05

Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Extra Tips

  1. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the stuffing mixture.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 44g