Description
This Cranberry Spinach Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a festive and flavorful dish perfect for holiday dinners or special occasions. Tender chicken breasts are filled with a rich, creamy mixture of spinach, cranberries, and cheese, then baked to golden perfection. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and bursting with comforting seasonal flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (Craisins)
- 3/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for sealing
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet with olive oil.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, cranberries, chopped spinach, garlic, and optional herbs until well combined.
3. Use a sharp knife to slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Season both sides of the chicken (inside and out) with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
5. Stuff each chicken breast with the prepared filling and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
6. (Optional) Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
7. Transfer chicken to the oven (in the same skillet or baking dish) and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove from oven, take out toothpicks or twine, and let rest for 5 minutes.
9. Serve warm with your favorite holiday sides.
Notes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp holiday salad.
For best results, use softened cream cheese and fresh herbs.
Searing before baking enhances flavor but can be skipped to save time.
Make ahead by prepping the stuffed chicken and refrigerating until ready to bake.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.