Spinach & Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken: A Healthy, High-Protein Classic.

Spinach and mozzarella stuffed chicken is a masterclass in adding moisture and flavor to chicken breasts, which can otherwise be prone to drying out. By creating a “pocket” and filling it with a mixture of sautéed greens and melty cheese, you essentially self-baste the meat from the inside out.

The result is a dish that offers a beautiful cross-section when sliced—vibrant green spinach and stretched mozzarella—making it as visually appealing as it is nutritious. This recipe uses a quick pan-sear to develop a golden crust, followed by a finish in the oven to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked and the cheese is fully melted.

Ingredients

Choose large, thick chicken breasts to make the “pocket” easier to cut and fill.

Chicken Breasts: 4 large (approx. 200g each).
Fresh Spinach: 150g (approx. 3 cups), chopped.
Mozzarella Cheese: 100g, shredded (or 4 thick slices).
Cream Cheese: 2 tablespoons, softened (acts as a binder for the spinach).
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
Seasonings: 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Filling

Heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and squeeze out any excess liquid. In a small bowl, mix the wilted spinach with the cream cheese and half of the mozzarella.

Step 2: Create the Pocket

Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp paring knife to cut a horizontal slit into the thickest part of the breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through to the other side.

Step 3: Stuff and Seal

Spoon the spinach mixture into each pocket and top with the remaining mozzarella. Secure the opening with 2 or 3 toothpicks to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking. Season the outside of the chicken generously with the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Sear and Bake

Preheat your oven to 200°C. In an oven-proof skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 5: Finish in the Oven

Transfer the skillet directly into the oven (or move the chicken to a baking dish). Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks and serving.

Flavor and Texture Notes

This dish provides a satisfying textural contrast. The exterior of the chicken is spiced and slightly crisp, while the interior is soft, creamy, and mild. The garlic-sautéed spinach adds an earthy depth that balances the richness of the mozzarella.

Tips for Success

Dry the Chicken: Pat the meat dry with paper towels before seasoning; this ensures the spices stick and the skin sears rather than steams.
Don’t Overstuff: While tempting, overfilling the pocket makes it harder to seal and increases the chance of the cheese “bursting” out in the pan.
Remove the Liquid: Squeezing the water out of the cooked spinach is vital. If left in, it will create a watery filling that prevents the cheese from sticking to the meat.

FAQ

Question	Answer
Can I add other ingredients?	Sun-dried tomatoes or crumbled feta work beautifully in the filling for a Mediterranean twist.
What if I don’t have an oven-proof skillet?	Simply sear the chicken in a regular pan, then transfer it to a preheated baking sheet or glass dish.
How do I know it’s done without a thermometer?	The juices should run clear when the thickest part is pierced, and the meat should feel firm to the touch.

Conclusion

Spinach and mozzarella stuffed chicken is an excellent way to elevate a standard weeknight protein into a gourmet-style meal. It is a low-carb, high-protein option that feels indulgent thanks to the molten cheese center. By mastering the sear-and-bake technique, you ensure the chicken remains succulent while achieving a professional, golden-brown finish.