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Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken sliced open in a cast iron skillet on white quartz counter

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken

Thick, juicy golden chicken breasts stuffed with a luscious filling of garlic-herb ricotta, cream cheese, and tender baby spinach. An impressive, low-carb 35-minute dinner made in one skillet.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 440

Ingredients
  

For the Savory Spinach & Ricotta Filling
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach chopped and wilted
  • 0.5 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened to room temp
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic finely minced
  • 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional for mild warmth
  • 0.5 tsp sea salt
For the Golden Herb Chicken
  • 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts about 7-8 oz each
  • 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian oregano
  • 0.75 tsp sea salt
  • 0.5 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for searing
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter for pan basting

Method
 

Making the Filling & Prepping Pockets
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the wilted chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, grated parmesan, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt. Stir vigorously until thoroughly blended and creamy.
  2. Place chicken breasts flat on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp chef knife, carefully slice a horizontal pocket into the thick side of each breast, cutting about 3/4 of the way through without cutting through the opposite edge or back.
  3. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the spinach ricotta mixture snugly into each pocket. Secure the open seam with 2 wooden toothpicks if desired.
Seasoning & Golden Skillet Sear
  1. Season both outer sides of the stuffed chicken breasts generously with paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
  3. Carefully add stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes until the bottom achieves a deep golden-brown crust. Gently turn with tongs and sear the second side for 4 to 5 minutes.
  4. Transfer skillet to a 375°F (190°C) preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or cover with a lid over low stovetop heat, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Rest 5 minutes before slicing on a bias.

Nutrition

Calories: 440kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 48gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 160mgSodium: 520mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gCalcium: 280mgIron: 2.1mg

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