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–+ servings

Hasselback Chicken with Spinach

This Hasselback Chicken with Spinach is one of those quiet weeknight wins. Juicy chicken stuffed with creamy ricotta, melted cheese, and garlicky spinach, baked until golden and comforting.
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A stuffed chicken breast with cheese and spinach sits on a bed of mashed potatoes on a beige plate.
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Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • ¾ cup ricotta cheese
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • ½ onion diced
  • ⅓ cup mozzarella cheese
  • ⅓ cup Italian Blend
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • A pinch of nutmeg
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the spinach filling: Add the olive oil, chopped onion, and a pinch of salt to a skillet over medium heat. Cook until translucent and lightly browned.
  • Add the fresh spinach and sauté for a few seconds until slightly wilted.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
  • Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add the ricotta, nutmeg, cheeses, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. Set aside.
  • Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Using a knife, make several slits in the top of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through (to create small pockets).
  • Stuff the chicken: Using a spoon, place a small amount of filling into each slit in the chicken breast.
  • Bake: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. Season with salt and pepper, and drizzle lightly with olive oil. 8. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Notes

Substitutions

  • Ricotta cheese: Cream cheese or cottage cheese both work if that is what you have.
  • Fresh spinach: One cup of frozen spinach can be used if thawed and squeezed dry.
  • Italian blend cheese: Parmesan or provolone make good stand ins.
  • Chicken breasts: Thick boneless thighs can work but will need extra care when cutting.

Variations

  • Extra garlicky: Add an additional clove of garlic for bolder flavor.
  • Herb forward: Mix in fresh basil or parsley for brightness.
  • Spicy twist: A pinch of red pepper flakes wakes everything up.
  • Low carb friendly: Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use a sharp knife: Clean cuts help keep the chicken intact.
  • Do not overstuff: Too much filling can spill out during baking.
  • Season in layers: Light seasoning at each step builds better flavor.
  • Let it rest: Resting keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
  • Check doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Servings: 2 servings
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