Ingredients
Stuffing Ingredients
- 5 ounces frozen spinach, thawed
- 3/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped (divided)
- 6 sun dried tomatoes, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, for seasoning
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for searing)
Instructions
- Drain the spinach: Place the thawed spinach into a clean kitchen towel and twist tightly to remove excess water. This prevents the stuffing from becoming soggy.
- Make the stuffing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, chopped sun dried tomatoes, chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Season with dried oregano, a pinch of kosher salt, and black pepper. Drizzle with a little olive oil and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Carefully create a pocket in each breast by placing it on a cutting board, holding firmly, and slicing about 3/4 of the way through the thickest part, making a 3 to 4-inch wide pocket without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff the chicken breasts: Evenly divide the spinach and cheese stuffing among the four chicken breasts, spooning the mixture into each pocket.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook on one side for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook on the other side for about 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for 3 to 5 minutes. Slice into smaller pieces if desired. Garnish with the reserved chopped walnuts, fresh parsley, and additional sun dried tomatoes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Removing excess water from the spinach is crucial to prevent a soggy stuffing.
- Make sure not to cut all the way through the chicken breasts when making the pockets.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
- Cast iron skillet helps achieve a nice sear but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work.
- Sun dried tomatoes packed in oil give more flavor; adjust quantity based on preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat