Spinach Artichoke Chicken Recipe

Spinach Artichoke Chicken is a deliciously creamy and savory dish that takes inspiration from the classic spinach and artichoke dip, with a twist. The juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spinach, artichokes, and melted cheeses, creating a meal that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s an easy-to-make dinner that will impress your family or guests with its delightful combination of flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
3. Prepare the chicken: Cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.
4. Stuff the chicken: Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and artichoke mixture, filling them generously.
5. Place in a baking dish: Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the filling is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Add garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the spinach and artichoke filling.
• Use other cheeses: Swap the mozzarella for provolone or add some cream cheese to make the filling extra creamy.
• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be added to the filling for added freshness.
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the spinach mixture or use a spicy cheese like pepper jack.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Spinach Artichoke Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
   Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the filling.
2. Can I use canned artichokes?
   Yes, canned artichoke hearts can be used. Just drain and chop them before adding to the mixture.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to bake, cook as directed.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier alternative to chicken breasts.
5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked.
6. Can I add more vegetables to the stuffing?
   Yes! You can add ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the stuffing mixture for added flavor.
7. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
8. What side dishes go well with this recipe?
   Spinach Artichoke Chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a simple side salad.
9. Can I cook this on the stovetop?
   While this dish is typically baked, you can pan-sear the stuffed chicken on the stovetop, then finish cooking it in the oven to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any flour or bread crumbs.

Conclusion

Spinach Artichoke Chicken is a fantastic weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare yet feels indulgent. With the perfect balance of creamy spinach and artichoke filling, melty cheese, and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a regular meal, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

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