Golden pan-seared chicken breasts stuffed with melted mozzarella, then finished in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce with tender spinach. This comforting one-pan dinner is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for an easy family meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–7 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese (about 4 oz)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Creamy Spinach Sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, or ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and well drained
Instructions
1. Stuff the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast.
Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Fold two slices of mozzarella cheese and tuck them inside each chicken breast. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
3. Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium.
Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream, until the sauce is smooth.
4. Finish the Sauce
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
Add the spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until wilted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Taste and adjust with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
5. Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy spinach sauce over the top.
Simmer for 2 minutes to warm everything through.
Serve immediately with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips & Variations
- Swap mozzarella for provolone, Swiss, or cheddar cheese for a different flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra richness.
- Replace spinach with kale if preferred.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 560 kcal
- Protein: 46g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
This creamy mozzarella stuffed chicken is rich, comforting, and packed with cheesy goodness, making it an easy dinner that’s guaranteed to impress.