Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Spinach Artichoke Filling:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup fresh baby spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

• 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Toothpicks for securing

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Prepare the chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thick side of each breast, cutting about 4-5 inches long and 2-3 inches deep, being careful not to cut all the way through.

4. Season the chicken: Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

5. Stuff the chicken: Divide the spinach artichoke mixture evenly among the four chicken breasts, spooning about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of filling into each pocket. Secure the opening with 2-3 toothpicks per breast.

6. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

7. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. Rest and serve: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Carefully remove toothpicks before serving. Serve immediately while hot.

This recipe serves 4 people and creates a restaurant-quality dish with creamy, cheesy filling inside perfectly seasoned chicken breasts.