Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken
Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken is a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a savory filling of spinach and tangy feta cheese. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s full of flavor. The combination of spinach and feta adds a rich, creamy texture and a burst of taste that elevates the simplicity of baked chicken to something truly special.
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A Family Favorite: How Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken Became a Dinner Staple
In our household, we’re always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and nutritious. This Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken quickly became a favorite after the first time I made it. My husband, who usually prefers his meals a bit heartier, was immediately impressed by the rich flavors and how satisfying this dish is without being heavy. The kids, who are always skeptical of anything green on their plates, loved the creamy, cheesy filling so much that they didn’t even mind the spinach. Now, this dish has become a regular part of our dinner rotation, especially on busy weeknights when I need something quick and delicious that the whole family will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken
- Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with protein and leafy greens, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious, offering a great way to get your veggies in.
- Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavors: The combination of tangy feta cheese and savory spinach brings a Mediterranean flair to your dinner table with minimal effort.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Serve it with a side of rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s satisfying and well-rounded.
Ingredients Notes For Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken
- Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation and a lean protein source.
- Feta Cheese: The feta cheese adds a tangy, salty flavor that perfectly complements the spinach.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach works best, but you can also use frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain it well.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a fragrant depth of flavor to the spinach filling.
Recipe Steps for Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken
- Prepare the Filling: Sauté fresh spinach in a little olive oil with minced garlic until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta cheese.
- Stuff the Chicken: Slice a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff it generously with the spinach and feta mixture. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden on top.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or herbed rice.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freeze: You can freeze the cooked, stuffed chicken breasts for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Variations & Substitutions
- Use Goat Cheese: Substitute feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture and a slightly tangier flavor.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the spinach and feta for an extra burst of flavor.
- Swap the Spinach: If you’re not a fan of spinach, try using kale or Swiss chard instead.
Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to carefully make a horizontal slit along the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, including inside the pockets.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes (if using), minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the Chicken: Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture, pressing the filling inside the pockets. Secure the openings with toothpicks if necessary.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the toothpicks before serving. Serve the spinach and feta baked chicken hot, garnished with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs if desired.
