Introduction
Indulge in a delightful dish that combines the tender juiciness of chicken breasts with the rich creaminess of Boursin cheese and the freshness of sautéed spinach. This stuffed chicken recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, offering a burst of flavor that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1.5 tablespoons canola, peanut, or olive oil
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 5.2 ounces Boursin cheese
– ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
12 minutes
Total Time
27 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Cut a 3-inch wide pocket into the thick side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and add the oil. Once the butter has melted, increase the heat to medium.
Sauté the Spinach
Add the spinach to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until wilted. Remove the spinach and place it on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the Boursin cheese and sautéed spinach until well mixed.
Stuff the Chicken
Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and cheese mixture, securing the openings with toothpicks if necessary.
Cook the Chicken
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 4 minutes, or until golden brown. Carefully flip the breasts and cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the other side is golden brown.
Add Wine and Finish Cooking
Reduce the heat to low, add the white wine (if using), cover the skillet, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Rest Before Serving
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Choosing Oil
You can use canola, peanut, or olive oil based on your preference for flavor and health benefits.
For Extra Flavor
Consider adding minced garlic or herbs like thyme or oregano to the spinach mixture for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Cook Techniques
Preparing Chicken Breasts
Cut a pocket into the thick side of the chicken breasts to create space for stuffing. Ensure you don’t cut all the way through to keep the filling intact.
Seasoning
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
Sautéing Spinach
Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add fresh baby spinach and sauté until just wilted, about 30 seconds.
Combining Ingredients
In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with Boursin cheese until evenly combined for the stuffing.
Stuffing Chicken
Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if needed.
Cooking Chicken
Cook the stuffed chicken in a skillet until golden brown on both sides, then cover and simmer with white wine to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.
Resting Chicken
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture and enhance flavor before serving.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before preparing the dish to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for Boursin cheese?
You can use any soft cheese, such as cream cheese or goat cheese, mixed with herbs for a similar flavor.
Is it necessary to use white wine?
No, it’s optional. You can substitute with chicken broth or simply omit it if you prefer not to use alcohol.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F, and the meat should no longer be pink in the center.
What side dishes pair well with this stuffed chicken?
Consider serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The stuffed chicken breasts filled with spinach and Boursin cheese offer a delightful and creamy flavor combination that is sure to impress. This dish provides a satisfying mix of protein and greens, making it a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Stuffed Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Mozzarella
Replace the spinach and Boursin cheese with sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Creamy Mushroom and Garlic Stuffed Chicken
Add sautéed mushrooms and garlic to the cheese mixture for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Pesto and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Substitute Boursin cheese with goat cheese and mix in some fresh pesto for a vibrant and aromatic filling.
Caprese Stuffed Chicken
Use fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella in the stuffing for a fresh Italian Caprese variation.
Cheddar and Broccoli Stuffed Chicken
Incorporate steamed broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese for a comforting and nutritious option.
